Introduction
Pulled pork is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to any gathering. With the help of an Instant Pot, you can create tender, juicy pork that is infused with BBQ flavor in no time. This recipe is simple yet delicious, perfect for serving on buns for a satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 pounds pork butt, cut into 4-inch chunks
2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning
2 cups BBQ sauce, divided
2/3 cup beef broth
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
Buns for serving (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (includes pressure release)
Yield: Serves 8-10
Enjoy this savory pulled pork as a main dish at your next barbecue or family dinner, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Place the pork butt pieces into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are arranged evenly across the bottom.
Step 2: Season the Pork
Sprinkle the BBQ seasoning evenly over the pork, making sure all pieces are well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Liquid to Instant Pot
Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the Instant Pot, ensuring it covers the meat adequately.
Step 5: Cook the Pork
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Set it to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
Step 6: Release Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. After that, perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Step 7: Shred the Pork
Carefully remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Using two forks, take out the pork pieces and shred them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 8: Adjust the Sauce
Drain half of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot. Return the shredded pork to the pot and add the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the pulled pork on buns, if desired, for a delicious meal.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Pulled pork can be served on hamburger buns or your choice of bread for a sandwich, along with coleslaw or pickles for added flavor.
Storage Instructions
Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add additional spices to customize the flavor profile to your preference.
Cook techniques
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking is a quick and efficient method that uses steam to cook food under high pressure, allowing meats like pork butt to become tender and cook thoroughly in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.
Shredding
Shredding is the technique of pulling apart cooked meat into pieces using two forks. This method creates a texture perfect for pulled pork sandwiches and allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Mixing Sauces
Combining BBQ sauce with beef broth and apple cider vinegar enhances the flavor of the pulled pork. This mixture tenderizes the meat while providing a balanced sweetness and acidity.
Natural Pressure Release
Allowing the pressure to release naturally for a period before quick releasing ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender by retaining moisture, which can be lost with a rapid release.
Combining Ingredients
After shredding the meat, returning it to the cooking liquid and adding additional BBQ sauce creates a cohesive dish where each bite is flavorful and well-sauced.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as pork shoulder or pork loin, but cooking times may vary.
Can I cook this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker; however, you will need to cook it for 8-10 hours on low heat.
What type of BBQ sauce is best to use?
You can use any variety of BBQ sauce, but a vinegar-based or sweet sauce works particularly well with pulled pork.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can this recipe be doubled in an Instant Pot?
Yes, but make sure not to exceed the max fill line of the Instant Pot, and adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot pulled pork recipe is a hassle-free way to create tender, flavorful meat that can be enjoyed in various ways. The combination of BBQ seasoning, BBQ sauce, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar infuses the pork with mouthwatering flavors, making it perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone dish. With minimal effort and quick cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
Shred the pulled pork and serve it in soft corn tortillas, topped with slaw, avocado, and fresh cilantro for a tasty taco night.
Pulled Pork nachos
Layer tortilla chips with shredded pulled pork, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.
BBQ Pork Fried Rice
Stir fry leftover pulled pork with rice, vegetables, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a delicious twist on fried rice.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Combine shredded pulled pork with cooked rice and black beans, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
Pulled Pork Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with shredded pork, cheese, and your choice of vegetables; cook on a skillet until crispy for a cheesy, satisfying meal.
Loaded Pulled Pork Potato Skins
Top baked potato halves with shredded pork, cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a hearty appetizer or side dish.
