Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork shoulder completely dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and creates a better crust.
- 2
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
- 3
Massage the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, coating every surface thoroughly. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- 4
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare your slow cooker.
- 5
Place sliced onions in the bottom of a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Place the rubbed pork shoulder on top, fat side up.
- 6
Pour apple cider vinegar and chicken broth around (not over) the pork to maintain the crust on top.
- 7
If using an oven: Cover tightly with foil and lid, then roast for 6-8 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender and reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F (90-96°C).
- 8
If using a slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours until fork-tender.
- 9
Remove the pork from the cooking liquid and let it rest for 15 minutes. Discard the bone and any large fat pieces.
- 10
Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding excess fat as you go.
- 11
Skim fat from the cooking liquid, then add 1 cup of the liquid back to the shredded pork for moisture.
- 12
Stir in BBQ sauce to taste (start with 1 cup, add more if desired) and mix well.
- 13
Toast the hamburger buns lightly in a dry skillet or under the broiler until golden.
- 14
Pile generous portions of pulled pork onto the bottom buns, top with coleslaw for crunch and tang, then add the top bun.
- 15
Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side, pickles, and your favorite sides.
Chef's Note
"This tender pulled pork is perfect for feeding a crowd and tastes even better the next day—serve it piled high on toasted buns with tangy coleslaw, and don't be shy with that extra BBQ sauce on the side."