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BBQ pulled pork is more than just a dish; it’s a beloved American classic that evokes images of backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Its rich, sweet, and tangy flavor profile makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether served in a sandwich, on a platter, or as part of a hearty meal. The secret to achieving that mouthwatering tenderness and flavor lies in the method of cooking—low and slow. This technique allows the pork to become incredibly tender as it absorbs the flavors of the marinade and the smoke, resulting in a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying to prepare.

Sweet & Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork – Perfect for Sandwiches!

Discover the art of making sweet and tangy BBQ pulled pork with this comprehensive guide. Learn about the ideal cuts of meat, essential ingredients like apple cider vinegar and brown sugar, and the magic of low and slow cooking. Follow our step-by-step preparation process to ensure your pulled pork is tender and bursting with flavor. Perfect for gatherings, enjoy it in sandwiches or with your favorite sides for a memorable meal that brings everyone together.
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Ingredients
  

3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/2 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons yellow mustard

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Buns, for serving

Coleslaw, for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season generously with salt and black pepper.

    Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).

      Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

        Slow Cook the Pork: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the marinated pork shoulder in a roasting pan and pour the remaining marinade over it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

          Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat. Mix the shredded pork with the pan juices for added flavor.

            Serve: Toast the buns lightly, then pile generous portions of the pulled pork on each bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, and drizzle with any extra BBQ sauce.

              Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of your BBQ pulled pork sandwiches!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 5 hours | 8 servings