Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
These slow cooker BBQ pulled pork tacos are a game-changer...
Why This Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipe Works
The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of dry rub and braising liquid...
Pork shoulder is the ideal cut for this recipe...
💡 Professional Tip
Don't skip trimming excess fat...
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! This pulled pork actually tastes even better the next day...
While pork shoulder is ideal...
Both work beautifully...
Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruity tanginess...
The pork is perfectly done when it shreds easily...
These tacos are excellent with classic Mexican sides...
Definitely! To make it spicier...
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container...
Recipe Troubleshooting Guide
Dry or Tough Meat
Problem: The pork came out dry...
Solution: This usually means the pork wasn't cooked long enough...
Too Much Liquid
Problem: The slow cooker has too much watery liquid...
Solution: Remove the pork and shred it...
Meat Falls Apart Too Much
Problem: The pork is so tender...
Prevention: While very tender meat is the goal...
Not Enough BBQ Flavor
Problem: The pork tastes good but lacks BBQ punch...
Recovery: After shredding the pork...
Tortillas Break Apart
Problem: The tortillas keep breaking...
Prevention: Cold tortillas are the main culprit...
Flavor Balance Issues
Too Sweet: If the pork is too sweet...
Too Salty: If it's too salty...
Bland: If the pork tastes bland...
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Perfect Pulled Pork
The foundation of great pulled pork starts with selecting the right cut...
Your choice of BBQ sauce makes a significant difference...
Essential Ingredient Notes
- Pork Shoulder: Choose a 3-4 pound pork shoulder...
- BBQ Sauce: Select a quality BBQ sauce...
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Use raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar...
Mastering the Slow Cooker Technique
The slow cooker technique for pulled pork is beautifully forgiving...
Once the pork is cooked, the shredding and finishing steps are crucial...
The Shredding Technique
Proper shredding makes all the difference...
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos
📋 Ingredients
For the Pulled Pork
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, dividedUse your favorite brand or homemade; divided for cooking and finishing
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegarRaw, unfiltered vinegar adds the best flavor and helps tenderize
- 1/4 cup chicken brothLow-sodium broth keeps the meat moist without adding too much salt
For the Coleslaw & Toppings
- 3 lbs pork shoulder, trimmedAlso called pork butt; look for good marbling and fat cap...
Instructions
Season the Pork
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously over all sides of the pork chunks, pressing it into the meat. Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker.
Add Cooking Liquid
Pour 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth over the pork. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the meat. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork shreds easily with a fork.
Shred and Sauce
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a large cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup BBQ sauce. Let it sit on warm for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Make the Coleslaw
While the pork rests, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and honey in a medium bowl. Add the shredded cabbage and toss until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Warm Tortillas and Assemble
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20-30 seconds per side until warm and pliable, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds. Fill each tortilla with generous portions of pulled pork, top with coleslaw, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Recipe Notes & Tips
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