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Introduction
In this Crock Pot Pulled Pork Fiesta, we’ve adapted the classic comfort dish to bring a zesty and flavorful twist perfect for any gathering. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delectable result—tender, juicy pulled pork with a hint of fiesta flair.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1000 g pork shoulder (boneless)
– 350 g onion, sliced
– 250 ml barbecue sauce
– 100 ml apple cider vinegar
– 50 g brown sugar
– 30 g paprika
– 15 g garlic powder
– 15 g chili powder
– 10 g ground cumin
– 10 g salt
– 5 g black pepper
– 150 ml chicken broth
Prep Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Total Time: 8-10 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and place it in the bowl of your crock pot.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
In a separate bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
Step 3: Add the Onions
Place the sliced onion on top of the spiced pork in the crock pot.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a different bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Pour this sauce mixture over the pork and onions in the crock pot.
Step 5: Cook the Pork
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
Step 6: Shred the Pork
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pork from the crock pot and use two forks to shred it into pieces.
Step 7: Mix with Juices
Return the shredded pork to the crock pot, and mix it thoroughly with the juices until it is fully coated.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the pulled pork hot on buns, tacos, or a platter alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with coleslaw, corn salad, or grilled vegetables.
Storage
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the spice rub and sauce mixture a day ahead to save time on the day of cooking.
Adjusting the Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
Cooking Time Variations
For a faster option, you can cook the pork on high heat for 4-5 hours, but low and slow yields the best results.
Storage Instructions
After serving, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Transfer the pulled pork to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Crock Pot Pulled Pork Fiesta is incredibly versatile. Serve it on soft buns for classic pulled pork sandwiches, or use tortillas for flavorful tacos. Add toppings such as coleslaw, diced tomatoes, lettuce, jalapeños, or avocado to enhance the fiesta vibe. Pair with sides like corn on the cob, Mexican rice, or black beans for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve the pulled pork over a salad or in lettuce wraps.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 150 g of pulled pork):
– Calories: 290
– Protein: 24 g
– Fat: 15 g
– Carbohydrates: 12 g
– Fiber: 1 g
– Sugars: 8 g
– Sodium: 700 mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have pork shoulder, you can use pork butt or pork loin, though the latter may result in drier meat. For a lower-sugar version, replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or omit it entirely. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, ensure that your barbecue sauce is gluten-free, or make your own. You can also vary the spices by adding cayenne pepper for extra heat or using a pre-made spice blend that contains similar flavors.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Utilizing a slow cooker allows for a low and steady heat that results in tender, juicy pulled pork. Cooking on low for 8-10 hours makes the flavors meld beautifully.
Spice Rub
A homemade spice rub helps enhance the flavor of the pork shoulder. Mixing paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper creates a zesty and aromatic base.
Layering Ingredients
Layering the sliced onions and the sauce mixture on top of the seasoned pork adds depth to the dish. The onions become tender while imparting flavor to the pork.
Shredding Technique
Shredding the pork using two forks allows you to achieve pulled pork consistency. This technique separates the meat fibers, making it easy to incorporate the juices.
Mixing in Juices
Returning the shredded pork to the crock pot and mixing it well with the juices ensures that every bite is flavorful and moist.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or pork butt, but pork shoulder is recommended for its higher fat content, which results in moist and tender pulled pork.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 4-6 hours, but low and slow cooking yields better flavor and texture.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
What can I serve with pulled pork?
Pulled pork can be served on buns, in tacos, or over rice. Pair it with coleslaw, corn, and other sides for a complete meal.
Can I modify the spice levels?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of chili powder or add hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Pulled Pork Fiesta is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a zesty twist. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it allows you to create tender, flavorful pulled pork that can be enjoyed in various ways. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making meal times enjoyable and stress-free.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chipotle Pulled Pork Tacos
Transform your pulled pork into spicy chipotle tacos. Serve with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh kick.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Layer shredded pulled pork between soft buns and top with crunchy coleslaw for a classic BBQ sandwich experience.
Pulled Pork Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and bake until the cheese melts. Drizzle with sour cream and guacamole before serving.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Fill baked sweet potatoes with shredded pulled pork and toppings like salsa, avocado, and cheese for a nutritious and filling dish.
Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Roll pulled pork into tortillas, pour enchilada sauce over them, and top with cheese before baking for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Southwest Pulled Pork Salad
Top a bed of greens with pulled pork, black beans, corn, and avocado, drizzling with a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing salad.
