It’s time to harness your inner pit boss, and with this recipe for BBQ Pulled Pork, you can do just that. This BBQ sandwich recipe is beyond simple because your smoker grill does all the heavy lifting. All you need is a little patience for the cooking and shredding, a killer BBQ sauce recipe, and your homemade pulled pork sandwich do all the talking.
What cut of pork is best for pulled pork?
The best cut of pork for pulled pork is the pork shoulder, also known as the pork butt. This cut has a good amount of fat, which makes it ideal for slow cooking on the smoker. You can also use a pork loin, but it will be leaner and may not be as tender as the pork shoulder.
How long does it take to smoke a pork shoulder for pulled pork?
It typically takes around 12-14 hours to smoke a pork shoulder for pulled pork. You'll want to smoke it at a low temperature (around 225-250°F) for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F. This low and slow cooking method allows the meat to become tender and flavorful.
What wood should I use for smoking pulled pork?
The best woods for smoking pulled pork are hickory, apple, and cherry. Hickory has a strong and smoky flavor that pairs well with pork, while apple and cherry provide a sweeter and more mild smoke flavor. You can also mix and match woods to create your own unique flavor profile.
What is the best way to season pulled pork?
The best way to season pulled pork is to create a dry rub made with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder before smoking it. You can also inject the pork shoulder with a marinade or mop it with a sauce during the smoking process for added flavor.
How do I pull the pork after it's smoked?
Once the pork shoulder is fully cooked, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before pulling it. Use two forks to shred the meat, pulling it apart along the natural muscle lines. Remove any large pieces of fat and discard them. You can also mix in some of the cooking juices or a barbecue sauce to add more flavor and moisture to the pulled pork.