Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork

Name: Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 530 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 pound pork shoulder (Boston butt) (bone-in or boneless); 2 tbsp olive oil (for rubbing); 3 tbsp paprika; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

530 min 8 servings medium

All Recipes

Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork

Deliciously tender and juicy pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection with a smoky BBQ flavor that melts in your mouth.

Prep

20 min

Cook

480 min

Total

530 min

Servings

Difficulty

medium

Pulled pork is a BBQ classic that brings a taste of Southern comfort food to your backyard. This dish is known for its tender, flavorful meat that can be served in a variety of ways, from sandwiches to tacos. The secret to a perfect pulled pork lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become wonderfully tender. By using a smoker or a grill with indirect heat, you can infuse the pork with a rich, smoky taste that complements the savory spices used in the rub. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just craving something hearty and delicious, this pulled pork recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Servings

Pulled Pork

Dry Rub

BBQ Sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil to help the dry rub adhere.

Pro tip: Trimming excess fat from the shoulder will reduce flare-ups and help the rub penetrate the meat.

Apply the Dry Rub

Mix all dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Generously coat the pork shoulder with the rub, making sure to cover all sides.

Pro tip: For enhanced flavor, let the rubbed pork rest in the refrigerator overnight.

Smoke the Pork

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the pork shoulder on the smoker grates. Smoke the pork for about 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).

Pro tip: Use wood chips like hickory or applewood for a balanced smoky flavor.

Rest and Shred the Pork

Remove the pork from the smoker and wrap it in aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Shred the pork using two forks.

Pro tip: Letting the pork rest allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender and flavorful.

Serve with BBQ Sauce

Mix the shredded pork with BBQ sauce to taste. Serve on buns or with your favorite sides.

Pro tip: Warm the BBQ sauce before adding it to the pork for a more cohesive flavor.

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Tips & Tricks

For the best pulled pork, choose a well-marbled pork shoulder. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Let the pork rest before shredding to retain juices.

Serving Suggestions

Once your pulled pork is ready, it's time to enjoy it in a variety of ways. Serve it on a toasted bun with a generous helping of coleslaw for a classic pulled pork sandwich. Alternatively, you can serve it on a platter with your favorite BBQ sides, such as baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad. Whatever you choose, this pulled pork is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.