Save to Pinterest Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and finished over open flame, tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, and piled high on toasted buns. Perfect for a hearty, rustic dinner with vibrant herb notes and a touch of fire-charred flavor.
This is a flavorful dish that brings together smoky and fire-charred tastes for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- Pork & Marinade: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking Liquid: 250 ml (1 cup) apple cider or apple juice, 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ Sauce & Herbs: 240 ml (1 cup) smoky barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Sandwich Assembly: 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 1 cup coleslaw (optional), 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil, then with the spice mixture.
- Step 2:
- Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until pork is very tender and shreds easily.
- Step 3:
- Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Step 4:
- Remove the pork from the cooking liquid, shred with two forks, and toss with half the BBQ sauce and chopped fresh herbs.
- Step 5:
- Place the shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet. Sear for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork develops crispy, fire-kissed edges.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden.
- Step 7:
- Pile the pulled pork onto toasted buns. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce, top with red onions and coleslaw if desired. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This recipe brings the family together for casual, flavorful dinners that everyone enjoys.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the rub or serve with pickled jalapeños. Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free option. Pair with a crisp lager or a zesty rosé.
Required Tools
Slow cooker or Dutch oven, grill or large cast-iron skillet, mixing bowls, grill basket (optional), tongs, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (buns), Soy (Worcestershire sauce and some BBQ sauces). May contain: Egg, Dairy (buns and butter). Always check labels if serving those with allergies.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your fire-kissed pulled pork sandwiches with loved ones for a memorable meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of pork is ideal for this dish?
Boneless pork shoulder works best due to its marbling and tenderness, which breaks down during slow cooking.
- → How do you achieve the fire-kissed edges?
After shredding, the pork is seared in a hot grill basket or cast-iron skillet for 3–5 minutes, allowing crispy charred edges to form.
- → Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?
Yes, a Dutch oven can be used on low heat for slow cooking until the pork is tender enough to shred.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor in this dish?
Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme add brightness and complement the smoky BBQ sauce perfectly.
- → Are there suggestions for serving accompaniments?
Serve alongside crisp lager or zesty rosé, with optional red onion slices and coleslaw for added texture.