Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your kitchen into a Southern BBQ paradise! This Carolina-style shredded pork recipe is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for seconds. With its perfect balance of tangy vinegar sauce and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings the heart of American barbecue tradition right to your dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the pork shoulder by patting it dry with paper towels and generously seasoning all sides with salt and pepper.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard to create the Carolina-style BBQ sauce.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder into a slow cooker, ensuring it fits comfortably.
- Pour the prepared BBQ sauce mixture over the pork, making sure to coat the meat evenly on all sides.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 8 hours, allowing the pork to become tender and easily shreddable.
- After 8 hours, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a large cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the pork meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix with the remaining sauce to ensure it's well-coated and moist.
- Serve hot on hamburger buns, allowing guests to add extra sauce if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Always use pork shoulder (also called pork butt) for the most tender and flavorful result. Its high fat content ensures juicy, shreddable meat.
- Low and Slow is the Key: Patience is crucial. Cooking the pork on low heat for 8 hours allows the meat to break down slowly, creating that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sauce Balance: The vinegar-based sauce is the hallmark of Carolina BBQ. Don't be afraid of the tanginess—it's what makes this recipe unique!
- Shredding Technique: Use two forks to pull the meat apart, working against the grain for the most tender strands.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. The pulled pork actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
- Serving Suggestions: While classic hamburger buns are traditional, try serving on toasted brioche buns or even over a bed of coleslaw for extra Southern flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 321kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 18g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
