Slow Cooker Pulled Pork with Coleslaw
Budget-friendly pulled pork that's fall-off-the-bone tender and served with a zesty coleslaw.
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
6 hours
Servings
8
Difficulty
Medium
Nutrition Facts
450
Calories
32g
Protein
28g
Carbs
19g
Fat
Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup water
- {"For the coleslaw":["4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)","1 medium carrot, grated","1/3 cup mayonnaise","1 tbsp apple cider vinegar","1 tsp sugar","Salt and pepper to taste"]}
Instructions
- 1
Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper on all sides. Set aside.
- 2
In a slow cooker, layer half of the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom.
- 3
Place the seasoned pork on top of the onion and garlic.
- 4
Add remaining onions and garlic over the meat.
- 5
Mix brown sugar with one cup of barbecue sauce in a small bowl and pour it over the pork. Pour water into the slow cooker around the meat.
- 6
Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- 7
Shred the cooked pork using two forks and return to the slow cooker, mixing well with remaining barbecue sauce if desired.
- 8
{"For coleslaw":"in a large bowl mix shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In another small bowl whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper; pour over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated."}
- 9
Serve pulled pork on buns or with rice alongside the fresh coleslaw.
So you’re looking for an affordable yet hearty meal to feed the whole fam? This slow cooker pulled pork with coleslaw is all you need. It’s not only easy on your wallet but also super simple to make, thanks to the convenience of the slow cooker.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First off, it's budget-friendly—the key ingredient here is pork shoulder, which is often much cheaper than cuts like pork loin or tenderloin, making this a great choice for families looking to stretch their grocery budget. Plus, with the low-and-slow cooking method in your slow cooker, you'll get incredibly tender and juicy meat that’s practically melting in your mouth.
Another big plus? It's family-friendly. The pulled pork is versatile; you can serve it on buns like a sandwich or alongside rice for a more traditional meal. Plus, the coleslaw offers a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the pork.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not seasoning the meat properly before cooking: Make sure you season your pork shoulder well with all spices; this will ensure deep flavor infusion as it cooks.
- Overcooking or undercooking the pork: Pork should be tender and easily shreddable. Keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
- Not using enough barbecue sauce for coating: The initial layer of barbecue sauce in the slow cooker is crucial. If you like your pork extra saucy, mix more into the shredded meat before serving.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder Substitute: You could use a different cut of pork if you prefer—ham hock or even chicken thighs can work in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time accordingly as they might cook faster than pork shoulder.
Barbecue Sauce Alternative: If you're looking to avoid store-bought sauces, try making your own with ketchup, molasses, vinegar, and spices of choice. This will give you full control over the sweetness and smokiness.
Coleslaw Variations: Add some crunch by tossing in a little chopped celery or even some sliced green onions into the coleslaw mix. For a different flavor profile, replace mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier taste.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make this recipe faster? Technically yes, you can pressure cook pork shoulder to tenderize it quicker and then transfer to a slow cooker to add more flavor and moisture. This will take about 45 minutes of cooking time under high pressure before switching to the slow cooker for another hour on low.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently, perhaps by adding a little bit more barbecue sauce and warming through until hot all the way through.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Most commercially available barbecue sauces contain gluten, so check labels carefully or make your own sauce without wheat flour or other gluten-containing ingredients.
Final Thoughts
If you're searching for an easy yet satisfying meal that won't break the bank, give this slow cooker pulled pork with coleslaw a try. It’s perfect for family gatherings or those mid-week nights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Happy cooking!