Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food: Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Rainbow Slaw! This mouthwatering recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will have your friends and family begging for seconds. With tender, juicy pork shoulder slow-cooked to perfection and topped with a refreshing, crunchy slaw, these sandwiches are the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to dive into the delicious world of pulled pork? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 6 sandwich buns
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder to ensure a leaner result. This will help the meat cook evenly and not become overly greasy.
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker. If you have time, you can sear the pork in a hot skillet with a little oil for a few minutes on each side to develop a deeper flavor before transferring it to the slow cooker.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is well coated. You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own if preferred.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Allow the pork to cook for about 8 hours, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. You can check the pork halfway through cooking to ensure it is not drying out.
- While the pork is cooking, prepare the rainbow slaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage and shredded carrots. Toss them together to mix evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss well to combine. Make sure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Set the slaw aside in the refrigerator to chill until serving.
- Once the pork is finished cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- If desired, you can mix some of the remaining BBQ sauce from the slow cooker into the shredded pork for added flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
- To assemble the pulled pork sandwiches, take a sandwich bun and pile a generous amount of the shredded pork onto the bottom half. Top with a scoop of rainbow slaw and place the top half of the bun on top.
- Serve the pulled pork sandwiches immediately, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who like a little more kick. Enjoy your delicious homemade pulled pork sandwiches with rainbow slaw!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: When selecting your pork shoulder, look for one with a good amount of marbling. This will ensure the meat stays juicy and flavorful during the long cooking process.
- Sear for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, searing the pork shoulder in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker can significantly enhance the depth of flavor. Just a few minutes on each side will do!
- Low and Slow: The key to perfectly tender pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. Resist the temptation to increase the heat; let the slow cooker do its magic over the full 8 hours.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor profile. You can even add a splash of apple cider or a hint of spice for a unique twist.
- Chill Your Slaw: Allowing the rainbow slaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving will enhance the flavors and give it a refreshing crunch.
- Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: When mixing the shredded pork with BBQ sauce, be generous! This adds moisture and flavor, making each bite irresistible.
- Serve with Sides: Consider pairing your pulled pork sandwiches with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Leftovers Galore: If you have any leftovers, they make for fantastic next-day meals! Use the pulled pork in tacos, on nachos, or even in a breakfast burrito for a delicious twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 587kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 107mg
