Slow Cooker Autumn Pulled Pork: Your New Fall Favorite!

 

 There's nothing quite like the crisp air of autumn, the changing leaves, and the comforting aroma of a delicious meal simmering away. As we lean into cooler temperatures, our cravings turn to hearty, warming dishes that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. And what could be easier than your trusty slow cooker?

Today, we're bringing you a recipe that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of fall: Slow Cooker Autumn Pulled Pork. This isn't your average pulled pork; we're infusing it with seasonal ingredients like apple cider, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup for a truly unforgettable meal. The best part? It's incredibly hands-off, leaving you more time to enjoy bonfires, pumpkin patches, or simply a cozy evening in.

Imagine tender, juicy pork, subtly sweet and savory, pulling apart with just a fork. It's fantastic piled high on brioche buns, nestled in a warm tortilla, or even served alongside roasted root vegetables or a creamy polenta. The possibilities are endless!

Let's dive into this simple yet sensational recipe:

---

Slow Cooker Autumn Pulled Pork

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (dark amber or grade B for richer flavor)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional, but lovely for fall!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional for serving: brioche buns, coleslaw, apple slices, fresh thyme

Instructions:

1.   Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended): Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Season generously all over with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until deeply golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds incredible flavor and color! If you're short on time, you can skip this, but it's worth the extra few minutes.

2.   Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet (or directly in your slow cooker if it has a sauté function), add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3.   Deglaze (If Searing): If you seared the pork, pour a splash of apple cider into the hot skillet to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds even more flavor to your sauce.

4.   Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared pork (if applicable) and sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker.

5.   Whisk the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining apple cider, chicken broth, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cloves (if using). Season with a pinch more salt and pepper.

6.   Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the pork in the slow cooker. Ensure the pork is mostly submerged.

7.   Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.

8.   Shred the Pork: Carefully remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board or in a shallow dish. Using two forks, shred the pork into desired pieces.

9.   Finish the Sauce: Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. You can thicken the sauce slightly by cooking it down on the "high" setting for 15-20 minutes with the lid off, or by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) and cooking until thickened.

10.              Combine and Serve: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it with the flavorful sauce. Stir to combine thoroughly.

11.              Enjoy! Serve your Autumn Pulled Pork warm on toasted brioche buns with coleslaw, or get creative with your favorite fall sides.

---

This Autumn Pulled Pork is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl (or on a bun!). The subtle sweetness of the apple and maple, combined with the warmth of the spices, makes it the quintessential dish for chilly evenings. Give it a try this fall – your taste buds will thank you!

Happy cooking, and enjoy the cozy season!