Introduction

Pulled pork sandwiches are an American classic, deeply rooted in the barbecue traditions of the southern United States. This iconic dish has a history that stretches back centuries, evolving from the time when Indigenous people cooked meat low and slow over open flames. Over the years, various regions have put their own spin on this beloved dish, but one thing remains constant: the irresistible combination of tender, slow-cooked pork and smoky barbecue sauce.

In this article, we’ll delve into a timeless recipe for Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the rich, flavorful results it delivers. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a game-day gathering, or simply craving comfort food, these pulled pork sandwiches will hit the spot. So, gather your utensils and let’s get started.

Preparation

Step 1: Season the Pork

Begin by preparing your pork shoulder or butt. In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. This flavorful rub will infuse the meat with a delicious combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy notes.

Rub this mixture evenly over the pork, ensuring that it coats all sides. The dry rub not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautiful crust as the meat slow-cooks.

Step 2: Place in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned pork shoulder or butt in the slow cooker. Scatter the sliced onions over the top of the meat. The onions will add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor as they caramelize during the cooking process.

Step 3: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The low and slow cooking method is essential for achieving the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes pulled pork so irresistible.

During this time, you can go about your day as the slow cooker works its magic, infusing the meat with all those incredible flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

While the pork is cooking, it’s the perfect opportunity to prepare the BBQ sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sauce is well-blended.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you like it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

Once the 8 hours are up, carefully remove the tender pork from the slow cooker using tongs. Place it on a cutting board or a large platter. Using two forks, start shredding the pork. The meat should practically fall apart at this point, making the shredding process a breeze.

Step 6: Add the BBQ Sauce

After shredding the pork, return it to the slow cooker. Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the shredded meat and onions. Gently mix everything together to ensure the pork is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step 7: Keep Warm

Set the slow cooker to the “Keep Warm” setting, allowing the pulled pork to soak in the barbecue sauce for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a harmonious and mouthwatering final product.

Step 8: Assemble the Sandwiches

To serve, split your hamburger buns or rolls and lightly toast them. Spoon a generous portion of the saucy pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half, and you’re ready to enjoy these mouthwatering Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce.

Historical Context

Pulled pork, as we know it today, has a rich history deeply embedded in American culinary traditions. Its origins can be traced back to Native American cooking techniques, where meat was slow-cooked over open flames or in underground pits, often with seasonings and herbs gathered from the surrounding environment.

As European settlers arrived in the Americas, they brought their own culinary influences, such as smoking and seasoning techniques. Over time, these methods blended with Indigenous practices, giving rise to the slow-cooked, seasoned pork we now associate with barbecue.

The popularity of pulled pork spread throughout the southern United States, with each region adding its unique touch to the dish. Today, it remains a beloved staple of American barbecue culture, cherished for its savory, smoky, and sweet flavors.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce are a testament to the time-honored tradition of American barbecue. This recipe captures the essence of slow-cooked, tender pork, complemented by a rich and smoky barbecue sauce. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy. So, fire up that slow cooker, savor the aroma as it fills your home, and indulge in the taste of history and tradition that is pulled pork barbecue.