10 Best Pulled Pork Recipe Slow Cooker Review For 2024

What is the secret to moist pulled pork?

The secret to moist pulled pork lies in a combination of factors:

a. Cut of meat: Choose a cut of pork that is well-marbled with fat and has connective tissues, such as pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) or pork picnic roast. These cuts benefit from the slow cooking process, which breaks down the collagen and fat, resulting in tender and juicy pulled pork.

b. Low and slow cooking: Cook the pork at a low temperature for an extended period to allow the collagen to break down and the meat to become tender. This typically involves cooking the pork in a slow cooker, oven, or smoker for several hours, until the meat easily shreds apart.

c. Seasoning and flavor: Use a flavorful dry rub or marinade to season the pork before cooking. This adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the pulled pork.

d. Moisture and basting: If desired, you can add a small amount of liquid, such as apple juice, broth, or a flavorful sauce, to the slow cooker or pan to help maintain moisture during the cooking process. Basting the meat occasionally with the cooking juices or a sauce can also contribute to moistness.

e. Resting and shredding: Allow the cooked pork to rest for a few minutes before shredding it. This helps retain the juices and ensures a moist texture. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the pork, which allows the fibers to separate easily.

Why is my pulled pork still tough in the slow cooker?

If your pulled pork is still tough after cooking in the slow cooker, there are a few possible reasons:

a. Insufficient cooking time: Pulled pork requires a lengthy cooking time to break down the collagen and fat, resulting in tenderness. It's possible that the cooking time was not long enough. Adjust the cooking time based on the specific recipe and size of the pork cut.

b. Inadequate liquid or moisture: Adding a small amount of liquid, such as broth, water, or a sauce, to the slow cooker helps create steam and maintain moisture during the cooking process. Lack of sufficient moisture can lead to toughness. Ensure there is enough liquid in the slow cooker to keep the pork moist.

c. Low cooking temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature can prolong the cooking time and result in tougher meat. Check that your slow cooker is functioning properly and reaches and maintains the desired cooking temperature.

d. Quality of the meat: The quality of the pork itself can affect the tenderness. Choose a well-marbled cut with good fat content and connective tissues, such as pork shoulder, for optimal results.

e. Cutting the pork too soon: It's crucial to allow the pulled pork to rest for a few minutes before shredding. Cutting it too soon can cause the juices to escape, resulting in drier meat. Let the pork rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax.

What is best to make pulled pork?

The best cut of meat to make pulled pork is typically pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) or pork picnic roast. These cuts are well-marbled with fat and contain connective tissues that break down during the long cooking process, resulting in tender and flavorful pulled pork. Pork shoulder is the most common and widely used cut for making pulled pork due to its rich taste and moist texture.

Should you flip pulled pork in the slow cooker?

In most cases, it is not necessary to flip pulled pork in the slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the pork to cook evenly and tenderize throughout without flipping. However, if you prefer, you can rotate the pork shoulder once or twice during the cooking process to ensure even exposure to the cooking liquid. It's important to minimize opening the slow cooker lid as it can extend the cooking time and release heat, which may impact the final result.

Read More:

The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipes in 2023: Reviews & Rankings

Expert’s Choice: 10 The Best Slow Cooker Chicken Wings in 2023