Smoky Maple Pulled Pork

Name: Smoky Maple Pulled Pork
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 525 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup maple syrup; 2 tbsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp salt; 1 tbsp black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder

525 min 8 servings medium

All Recipes

Smoky Maple Pulled Pork

Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of this tender Maple Pulled Pork, perfect for any BBQ gathering.

Prep

15 min

Cook

480 min

Total

525 min

Servings

Difficulty

medium

Maple Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on a classic BBQ favorite, combining the rich, smoky flavors of traditional pulled pork with the sweet, aromatic notes of maple syrup. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their savory BBQ. The secret to achieving tender, juicy pulled pork lies in the slow cooking process. By cooking the pork shoulder low and slow, we allow the connective tissues to break down, resulting in meat that effortlessly falls apart. The addition of maple syrup not only enhances the natural flavors of the pork but also gives it a beautifully caramelized crust as it cooks. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or seeking comfort food on a cooler day, Maple Pulled Pork is sure to please a crowd. Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoy it on its own with a side of coleslaw.

Ingredients

Servings

Pulled Pork

Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the meat.

Pro tip: Ensure the pork is at room temperature before applying the rub for even cooking.

Apply the Rub

In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Thoroughly coat the pork shoulder with the spice mixture.

Pro tip: For deeper flavor, let the rubbed pork sit in the fridge overnight.

Smoke the Pork

Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Place the pork shoulder on the grill grates and smoke for about 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.

Pro tip: Use applewood chips for a sweet, smoky flavor that complements the maple syrup.

Rest and Pull

Remove the pork from the smoker and let it rest for 30 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork, mixing in the maple syrup for added sweetness.

Pro tip: For a juicier result, pour any collected juices back over the shredded pork.

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Tips & Tricks

For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 195°F before pulling. Allow the pork to rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding to let the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Pulled Pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Pile the pulled pork onto soft brioche buns and top with crunchy coleslaw for a classic pulled pork sandwich. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, try using the pulled pork as a filling for tacos, topped with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime. No matter how you serve it, this Maple Pulled Pork is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ gathering!