My entire home always smells amazing when this is being slow cooked! Tastes even better than it smells!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder

Begin by patting your pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat. Rub the pork generously with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure to coat the pork evenly on all sides.

2. Sear the Pork (Optional but Recommended)

While searing is optional, it does add a lot of flavor to the dish. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step helps lock in the juices and adds depth to the final flavor.

3. Combine the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic around the pork. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Pour the mixture over the pork.

4. Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The pork should be incredibly tender and easily shred when you pull it with a fork. If you have the time, cooking it on low for longer ensures the meat absorbs all of the flavors.

5. Shred the Pork

Once the pork is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about being too neat—the rustic, pulled texture adds to the charm of this dish!

6. Toss the Shredded Meat in the Sauce

Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it in the flavorful sauce and juices. Stir everything together so that the pork is fully coated in the savory, tangy glaze.

7. Serve

Serve the pulled pork on buns for a delicious sandwich or alongside your favorite sides. It pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. The combination of the tender pork and the sweet, tangy sauce is simply irresistible.

Why This Recipe Will Have Your House Smelling Amazing

Now that you know how to make this slow-cooked pulled pork, let’s talk about why your home will smell so amazing during the cooking process. As the pork cooks low and slow, it releases savory aromas that will fill every room in your house. The blend of onions, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering scent that builds throughout the day, making your home feel warm and inviting.

As the pork becomes more tender, it starts to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, adding depth to the smell. The tangy vinegar and Worcestershire sauce mix with the sweetness of brown sugar and ketchup, creating a balanced aroma that’s both savory and subtly sweet.

And, the best part? The smell isn’t just tempting—it tastes even better than it smells!

Variations and Tips for the Best Pulled Pork

• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some hot sauce, extra red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce. This will give the pulled pork a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
• Use Different Cuts of Meat: While pork shoulder is ideal for slow cooking, you can also use pork loin or pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these cuts will be less fatty and may need slightly less cooking time.
• Leftovers: Pulled pork makes fantastic leftovers! Use it in tacos, burritos, nachos, or even a breakfast hash with eggs. The flavor gets even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

This slow-cooked pulled pork recipe is a game-changer, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas that are almost as irresistible as the final dish. The tender pork, rich sauce, and blend of sweet and savory flavors come together to create a meal that’s comforting, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family, or simply indulging in a comforting meal, this recipe will not only make your home smell incredible but will also deliver a dish that tastes even better than it smells. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again. Enjoy!