Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: Your New Weeknight Hero

 Life can get hectic, right? Between work, school, activities, and just trying to keep your head above water, who has hours to spend in the kitchen every night? That's where your trusty slow cooker comes in, and today, we're putting it to work to create some seriously delicious pulled pork.

This recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender, flavorful pork, shredding effortlessly with a fork, all thanks to minimal effort on your part. It's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen all day? Pure bliss.

So, let's get that crock pot fired up and make some magic!

What You'll Need:

• Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt): A 3-4 pound cut is ideal for shredding. The marbling in this cut keeps it incredibly moist during the long cooking process.
• Onion: One medium onion, roughly chopped. It adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced. Because, well, garlic.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: About 1 cup. This helps keep the pork moist and creates a flavorful liquid for the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1/4 cup. A touch of acidity brightens up the flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons. For a hint of sweetness and to help create that beautiful caramelized crust if you choose to broil.
• Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon. For that smoky, savory kick.
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon. Earthy and warm.
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a little warmth and complexity.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!

Let's Get Cooking!

1.    Prep the Pork: Pat your pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better. Season generously all over with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Really rub it in!

2.    Sauté (Optional, but Recommended!): If you have an extra 5 minutes, sear the pork in a hot pan with a little oil before putting it in the slow cooker. This creates a beautiful crust and locks in even more flavor. If you're short on time, no worries, it will still be delicious!

3.    Slow Cooker Assembly: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seared (or un-seared!) pork shoulder on top.

4.    Add Liquids & Sweetness: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the pork.

5.    Set It and Forget It! Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender. You'll know it's ready when you can easily shred it with two forks.

6.    Shred & Serve: Carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it in a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the pork. It should literally fall apart.

7.    Combine with Sauce: Skim off any excess fat from the liquid remaining in the slow cooker. You can use some of this flavorful liquid to moisten your shredded pork. If you like, stir in your favorite BBQ sauce to taste, or leave it plain and let people add their own at the table.

Serving Suggestions:

The possibilities are endless!

• Classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Pile high on soft burger buns with a dollop of coleslaw.
• Tacos or Burrito Bowls: A fantastic filling for your next taco night!
• Over Rice or Quinoa: For a simple, satisfying meal.
• On Top of Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Load it up with your favorite toppings.
• In Lettuce Wraps: A lighter, low-carb option.

However you serve it, this slow cooker pulled pork is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's proof that amazing flavor doesn't have to mean hours of work. Enjoy!