Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork: A Flavorful & Effortless Recipe

Pulled pork is a classic comfort food, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even just enjoying on its own. But sometimes, the thought of a long, complicated cooking process can be daunting. That’s where Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork comes in! This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal effort, resulting in tender, juicy, and utterly delicious pulled pork every time.

This method leverages the power of slow cooking or pressure cooking, depending on your preference and time constraints. We’ll provide instructions for both methods, ensuring you can enjoy this incredible dish regardless of your kitchen equipment.

Why Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork?

* **Simplified Ingredients:** We use common pantry staples and readily available spices, eliminating the need for a special trip to the grocery store.
* **Effortless Preparation:** The hands-on time is minimal. Simply season the pork, sear it (optional but recommended for extra flavor), and let your slow cooker or pressure cooker do the work.
* **Incredible Flavor:** The combination of spices creates a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile that’s guaranteed to impress.
* **Versatile:** Pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Use it in sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, salads, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious pulled pork throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork:

* **3-4 lb Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt):** This cut is ideal for pulled pork due to its high fat content, which renders during cooking and keeps the meat moist and tender. Bone-in or boneless works equally well. If using bone-in, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
* **2 tbsp Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork Rub (See Recipe Below):** Our signature spice blend is the key to the amazing flavor.
* **1 tbsp Olive Oil (Optional):** For searing the pork. Searing adds a depth of flavor but can be skipped for an even easier preparation.
* **1 cup Chicken Broth or Apple Cider Vinegar:** Provides moisture during cooking and helps to tenderize the pork. Using apple cider vinegar will add a bit of tanginess.
* **1 medium Onion, chopped:** Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the cooking liquid.
* **2 cloves Garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Optional):** For tossing with the pulled pork after shredding. Choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe. This is optional, as the pork is flavorful enough on its own.

Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork Rub Recipe

This simple spice blend is the secret to the delicious flavor of our pulled pork. You can easily adjust the quantities to suit your taste.

* **2 tbsp Smoked Paprika:** Provides a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
* **1 tbsp Brown Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the pork.
* **1 tbsp Garlic Powder:** Enhances the savory flavor.
* **1 tbsp Onion Powder:** Adds depth and complexity.
* **1 tbsp Chili Powder:** Adds a touch of heat (adjust to your preference).
* **1 tsp Ground Cumin:** Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
* **1 tsp Dried Oregano:** Adds an herbaceous note.
* **1 tsp Salt:** Enhances the other flavors.
* **1/2 tsp Black Pepper:** Adds a touch of spice.
* **1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional):** For extra heat.

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine the spices:** In a small bowl, combine all the spices for the rub and mix well.
2. **Store:** Store any leftover rub in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Slow Cooker Instructions

The slow cooker method is perfect for those who want to set it and forget it. It’s ideal for busy weekdays or when you want to come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the pork:** Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better.
2. **Apply the rub:** Generously rub the Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork Rub all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Don’t be shy – the more rub, the more flavor!
3. **Sear the pork (Optional):** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. This step adds a delicious crust and enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
4. **Prepare the slow cooker:** Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. **Add the pork:** Place the seared (or unseared) pork shoulder on top of the onion and garlic.
6. **Add the liquid:** Pour the chicken broth or apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker.
7. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is easily shredded with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 203°F (95°C).
8. **Shred the pork:** Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat.
9. **Mix with BBQ sauce (Optional):** In a large bowl, toss the shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired.
10. **Serve:** Serve the pulled pork on buns, in tacos, or however you like!

Pressure Cooker (Instant Pot) Instructions

The pressure cooker method is a much faster way to achieve tender and flavorful pulled pork. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still crave that slow-cooked taste.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes (including pressure build-up and release time)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the pork:** Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
2. **Apply the rub:** Generously rub the Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork Rub all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. **Sear the pork (Optional):** Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Heat the olive oil. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. This step adds a delicious crust and enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
4. **Deglaze the pot:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for a few minutes until softened. Pour in the chicken broth or apple cider vinegar and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, removing any browned bits. This prevents the burn warning.
5. **Add the pork:** Place the seared (or unseared) pork shoulder on top of the onion and garlic.
6. **Cook:** Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
7. **Release the pressure:** Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. **Shred the pork:** Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat.
9. **Mix with BBQ sauce (Optional):** In a large bowl, toss the shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired.
10. **Serve:** Serve the pulled pork on buns, in tacos, or however you like!

Serving Suggestions

Pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Pulled Pork Sandwiches:** A classic choice! Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns with coleslaw, pickles, and your favorite BBQ sauce.
* **Pulled Pork Tacos:** A fun and flavorful twist. Fill tortillas with pulled pork, shredded cabbage, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
* **Pulled Pork Nachos:** A crowd-pleasing appetizer. Top tortilla chips with pulled pork, cheese, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and your favorite nacho toppings.
* **Pulled Pork Quesadillas:** A quick and easy meal. Fill tortillas with pulled pork, cheese, and your favorite quesadilla fillings.
* **Pulled Pork Salad:** A lighter option. Top a bed of mixed greens with pulled pork, corn, black beans, avocado, and a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Pulled Pork Loaded Baked Potatoes:** A hearty and satisfying meal. Top baked potatoes with pulled pork, cheese, sour cream, and chives.
* **Pulled Pork Sliders:** Perfect for parties. Serve the pulled pork on small slider buns with coleslaw and pickles.
* **Pulled Pork Pizza:** A unique and delicious twist on pizza. Top your favorite pizza dough with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, cheese, and onions.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pulled Pork

* **Don’t skip the rub:** The Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork Rub is the key to the amazing flavor of this dish. Make sure to apply it generously to the pork shoulder.
* **Sear the pork for extra flavor:** Searing the pork shoulder before cooking adds a delicious crust and enhances the overall flavor. While optional, it’s highly recommended.
* **Don’t overcook the pork:** Overcooked pork can be dry and tough. Cook the pork until it’s easily shredded with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 203°F (95°C).
* **Let the pressure release naturally:** Allowing the pressure to release naturally in the Instant Pot helps to keep the pork moist and tender.
* **Use your favorite BBQ sauce:** Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor combination.
* **Add a splash of liquid after shredding:** After shredding the pork, add a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid or BBQ sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
* **Rest the pork:** Let the pork rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking before shredding it. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful pulled pork.
* **Adjust the spices to your liking:** Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices in the rub to suit your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more brown sugar.
* **Use a meat thermometer:** A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the pork is cooked to the correct temperature.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** Pulled pork is a very forgiving dish. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own unique version.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Pulled pork is a great make-ahead dish. You can cook it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the microwave, oven, or slow cooker. To reheat in the oven, place the pulled pork in a baking dish with a little bit of the cooking liquid or BBQ sauce. Cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. To reheat in the slow cooker, place the pulled pork in the slow cooker with a little bit of the cooking liquid or BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through.

Storage Instructions

Leftover pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze pulled pork for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

(Based on a 4 oz serving of pulled pork, without bun or sauce)

* Calories: 250-300
* Protein: 25-30g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

Variations

* **Spicy Pulled Pork:** Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the rub.
* **Sweet Pulled Pork:** Add more brown sugar to the rub and use a sweeter BBQ sauce.
* **Smoky Pulled Pork:** Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid.
* **Hawaiian Pulled Pork:** Add a can of crushed pineapple to the slow cooker or Instant Pot.
* **Mexican Pulled Pork:** Add a packet of taco seasoning to the rub and serve with your favorite taco toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Not using enough rub:** The rub is what gives the pulled pork its flavor, so don’t be shy with it.
* **Not searing the pork:** Searing the pork adds a delicious crust and enhances the flavor. While optional, it’s highly recommended.
* **Overcooking the pork:** Overcooked pork can be dry and tough. Cook the pork until it’s easily shredded with a fork.
* **Not letting the pressure release naturally:** Allowing the pressure to release naturally in the Instant Pot helps to keep the pork moist and tender.
* **Not using enough liquid:** Make sure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker or Instant Pot to prevent the pork from drying out.

Final Thoughts

Eaton’s Easy Pulled Pork is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy this classic comfort food. Whether you choose the slow cooker or the pressure cooker method, you’re guaranteed to end up with tender, juicy, and flavorful pulled pork that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your appliances, and get ready to enjoy the best pulled pork you’ve ever tasted!

Enjoy!