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Sweet & Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food, making it a beloved staple at gatherings, picnics, and family dinners across the globe. The allure of BBQ pulled pork lies not only in its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture but also in the harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors that captivate the taste buds. Whether served piled high on a soft bun or plated alongside traditional sides like coleslaw and baked beans, this dish has the remarkable ability to elevate any meal occasion into a festive feast.

Sweet & Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork – Perfect for Sandwiches!

Discover the delightful world of Sweet & Tangy BBQ Pulled Pork, a comfort food classic that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe highlights tender pork shoulder, infused with a rich BBQ sauce made from apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and spices, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Served on soft buns with coleslaw and classic sides, this dish promises to elevate any meal. Dive into the preparation and enjoy the mouthwatering experience of BBQ pulled pork that's sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup ketchup

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

8 hamburger buns

Coleslaw (for topping, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into several large pieces. This will help it cook evenly and absorb flavor.

    Sear the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork pieces on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor. Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

        Make the BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth.

          Combine Everything: Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the pork in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Add the sautéed onion and garlic on top.

            Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

              Shred the Pork: Once fully cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Shred the pork using two forks (or your hands if cool enough). Return the shredded pork back into the sauce in the slow cooker, mixing to coat well.

                Serve: Toast the hamburger buns slightly and pile on the sweet and tangy pulled pork. Top with coleslaw if desired for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.

                  Enjoy: Serve warm and relish this deliciously sweet and tangy BBQ pulled pork sandwich with your favorite sides, such as baked beans or corn on the cob!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) | Servings: 8 sandwiches