Name: Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 500 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lbs Pork shoulder (butt); 0.5 cup Brown sugar; 2 tbsp Smoked paprika; 1 tsp Cayenne pepper; 0.5 cup Apple cider vinegar; 1.5 cups BBQ sauce; 2 tbsp Honey; 1 tbsp Red pepper flakes; 8 units Brioche buns; 1 tbsp Garlic powder

"Experience melt-in-your-mouth pork shoulder slow-cooked until it falls apart, then smothered in a rich glaze of smoky BBQ sauce, honey, and crushed red pepper. Served on toasted buttery brioche buns with a crisp vinegar slaw, these sandwiches offer the perfect balance of heat and sweetness."

Ingredients

Qty	Item
4 lbs 1.8 kg	Pork shoulder (butt)
0.5 cup 100 g	Brown sugar
2 tbsp 14 g	Smoked paprika
1 tsp 2 g	Cayenne pepper
0.5 cup 120 ml	Apple cider vinegar
1.5 cups 360 ml	BBQ sauce
2 tbsp 30 ml	Honey
1 tbsp 6 g	Red pepper flakes
8 units 8 count	Brioche buns
1 tbsp 8 g	Garlic powder

How to Make Sweet and Spicy BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.

Rub the spice mixture thoroughly over all sides of the pork shoulder.

Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker and pour the apple cider vinegar around the base of the meat.

Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a large cutting board. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of excess fat.

Drain the liquid from the slow cooker, reserving 1/2 cup. Return the shredded pork to the pot.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the pork and add the reserved cooking liquid.

Stir well and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Toast the brioche buns until golden and serve the pork piled high, topped with coleslaw or pickles if desired.

·
For a crispier texture, spread the shredded and sauced pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes before serving.
·
Always use pork shoulder or 'butt' rather than pork loin; the higher fat content ensures the meat stays moist during the long cook time.
·
If you want even more heat, add a tablespoon of minced canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the BBQ mixture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook the seasoned pork with the vinegar and 1/2 cup of water on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow a 15-minute natural release before shredding.

Can I use pork loin instead of shoulder?

Pork loin is much leaner and may become dry in the slow cooker. If you must use it, reduce the cooking time and add extra sauce.

How long does leftover pulled pork stay fresh?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to reheat the pork?

Reheat it in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to maintain moisture.

Video Tutorials

Dinner: BBQ Pulled Pork Recipe - How To Make Pulled Pork

Grandma’s Easy Pulled Pork Recipe (Melt-in-Your-Mouth!) | Allrecipes

Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwiches Recipe | Over The Fire Cooking by Derek Wolf

Pulled Pork Sandwich #pulledpork #bbq #crockpotcooking #cooking #food #easyrecipe #easymeals #fy

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