Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Delicious Pulled Pork Sandwiches with a Slow Cook Option
Delicious Pulled Pork Sandwiches with a Slow Cook Option
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar (packed)
- 2 pounds pork shoulder (or butt, trimmed and cut into 3-in
- 1/4 cup unsulfured molasses
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 4 rolls (or buns split)
- your favorite coleslaw
- Carbohydrate 28.0211276866417 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.26271627301855 g
- Fiber 1.10193571801496 g
- Protein 1.62084518857562 g
- Saturated Fat 0.573805368096916 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (362g)
- Sodium 1066.45575969586 mg
- Sugar 26.9191919686267 g
- Trans Fat 0.241364686416193 g
- Calories 146 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne. Season the pork with the rub.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, water, vinegar, brown sugar, chili powder, mustard, Worcestershire, and cayenne.
- Turn the Instant pot on to Sauté. Heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the sauce and mix to combine. Press Cancel.
- Add the pork to the sauce and turn to coat. Lock the lid.
- To slow-cook: Press Slow Cook, leave the vent open, and cook on “More” for 8 hours. To pressure-cook: Press Manual and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- When cooking is complete use the “Quick Release” method to vent the steam, then open the lid.
- Transfer the pork to a bowl. Press Cancel, then press Sauté and simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Press Cancel.
- Using 2 forks, shred the pork, then return it to the pot and toss to coat.
- Pile the pork and coleslaw on the bottom halves of the buns and sandwich with the tops.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Pulled Pork Sandwiches
As a busy mom of three, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework help, soccer practice, and the ever-present quest for a decent meal that everyone will actually eat. That’s where this recipe for Pulled Pork Sandwiches comes in. It's become a staple in our household, not just because it’s delicious, but because it's incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to whatever time I have available.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. The Instant Pot is a lifesaver. Whether I have 45 minutes or 8 hours, I can get perfectly tender, juicy pulled pork. The pressure cooker method is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It dramatically reduces cooking time, and the result is melt-in-your-mouth perfection. But if I'm not pressed for time – maybe it’s a weekend – I’ll opt for the slow cooker method, letting the flavors meld and deepen over several hours. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone in the family happy. The slow-cooked version is especially great when you want a more intense, smoky flavour. The best part? The leftovers are just as delicious, perfect for quick lunches or another dinner the next night. I often freeze extra portions for those particularly hectic weeks when even ten minutes of cooking feels impossible.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this recipe is endlessly customizable. I’ve experimented with different types of buns – brioche, pretzel rolls, even slider buns for smaller portions. The coleslaw is a classic pairing, but I’ve also used quick-pickled onions, crunchy slaw with a spicy kick, and even a simple avocado crema for a lighter alternative. Sometimes I'll add a side of sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables to make it a more complete meal. It's all about what suits my family's taste and what I have on hand. It's a recipe that grows with me, adapting to the demands of each week while always providing satisfying results.
This recipe isn't just for weeknights though. It's also a fantastic choice for casual get-togethers. I’ve served it at backyard barbecues and potlucks, and it's always a hit. The rich, savory flavor and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion. The fact that much of the cooking can be done in advance makes it even more appealing. I can prepare the pork and sauce ahead of time, then just assemble the sandwiches when guests arrive. It’s effortless entertaining at its finest.
The heart of this recipe, of course, is the pulled pork itself. The combination of spices creates a complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory, with just a hint of heat. The slow-cooking process ensures that the pork is incredibly tender, practically falling apart at the touch of a fork. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, cooked low and slow. And the best part is watching the faces of my family as they take their first bite. The smiles and satisfied sighs are the most rewarding part of cooking.
One thing I've learned in my years as a homemaker is that a good recipe isn't just about the food itself; it's about the memories it creates. This recipe for Pulled Pork Sandwiches has become more than just a meal; it's a symbol of comfort, togetherness, and a happy family. It's a taste of home, and that's something I wouldn't trade for anything.
So, if you're looking for a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make recipe that will satisfy everyone around your table, give these Pulled Pork Sandwiches a try. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. And remember, don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! It's a recipe that encourages creativity and always delivers satisfying results.
