Pin it Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and finished over open flame, tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, and piled high on toasted buns. Perfect for a hearty, rustic dinner with vibrant herb notes and a touch of fire-charred flavor.
I first served this to friends and the smoky BBQ sauce combined with the tender pork was an absolute hit.
Ingredients
- Pork & Marinade: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking Liquid: 250 ml (1 cup) apple cider or apple juice, 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ Sauce & Herbs: 240 ml (1 cup) smoky barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- Sandwich Assembly: 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 cup coleslaw (optional), 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil, then with the spice mixture.
- Step 2:
- Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until pork is very tender and shreds easily.
- Step 3:
- Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Step 4:
- Remove the pork from the cooking liquid, shred with two forks, and toss with half the BBQ sauce and chopped fresh herbs.
- Step 5:
- Place the shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet. Sear for 3 to 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the pork develops crispy fire-kissed edges.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden.
- Step 7:
- Pile the pulled pork onto toasted buns. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce, top with red onions and coleslaw if desired. Serve immediately.
Pin it This recipe became a favorite at family gatherings where everyone loved the smoky flavor and tender texture.
Notes
Pair with a crisp lager or a zesty rosé to complement the smoky flavors for a well-rounded meal.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (buns) and Soy (Worcestershire sauce and some BBQ sauces). May contain Egg and Dairy (buns and butter). Always check labels if serving those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 570 per serving Total Fat: 23 g Carbohydrates: 52 g Protein: 36 g
Pin it This BBQ pulled pork sandwich is perfect for impressing guests and enjoying a flavorful homemade meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → What cut of pork works best?
Boneless pork shoulder is ideal thanks to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.
- → How can I achieve the fire-kissed edges?
After slow cooking, sear the shredded pork on a hot grill or cast-iron skillet for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- → Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Yes, slow cook the pork in advance, then finish searing and assembling just before serving.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme are used to brighten the smoky pork with herbaceous notes.
- → Are there suggestions for side pairings?
This dish pairs well with crisp lagers or zesty rosé wines to complement its smoky richness.