Fire-Kissed BBQ Pulled Pork (Print View)

Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and fire-seared, layered with smoky BBQ sauce and fresh herbs on toasted buns.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pork & Marinade

01 - 3.3 pounds boneless pork shoulder
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 2 teaspoons kosher salt
10 - 1 teaspoon black pepper

→ Cooking Liquid

11 - 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
12 - 1/3 cup chicken broth
13 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

→ BBQ Sauce & Herbs

14 - 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
16 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

→ Sandwich Assembly

18 - 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns
19 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
20 - 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
21 - 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting buns)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub pork shoulder with olive oil, then evenly coat it with the spice mixture.
02 - Place pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Pour in apple cider, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
03 - Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat to prepare for searing.
04 - Remove pork from cooking liquid and shred using two forks. Toss shredded pork with half of the barbecue sauce and fresh chopped herbs.
05 - Place shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet. Sear for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy edges develop.
06 - Butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden brown.
07 - Pile pulled pork onto toasted buns. Drizzle with remaining barbecue sauce and top with red onion slices and optional coleslaw. Serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Hearty rustic dinner
  • Vibrant herb notes and fire-charred flavor
02 -
  • Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free option
  • Pair with a crisp lager or a zesty rosé
03 -
  • For best flavor, allow pork to rest before shredding
  • Toast buns just before serving to keep them crisp
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