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Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork Recipe

Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork Recipe to Savor

This Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork Recipe is a deliciously easy, gluten-free, and dairy-free dish perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Foods
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pulled Pork
  • 5 pounds Pork Shoulder A boneless cut makes shredding easy and effortless.
  • 2 teaspoons Salt Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust to suit your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds just the right amount of heat; white pepper can substitute for a milder flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Smoked Paprika Infuses a delightful smokiness; sweet paprika works just as well.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Provides warmth and a hint of sweetness; omit if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
  • 2 Yellow Onions, sliced The base flavor for depth; consider shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard Adds a tangy kick; yellow mustard can be used for a more traditional flair.
  • 6 Garlic Cloves, minced The aromatic hero of this dish; garlic powder is a good alternative (1/2 teaspoon).
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme, chopped Offers fresh herb flavor; substitute with dried thyme (1 teaspoon) if needed.
  • 2.5 cups Apple Cider The core liquid in this dish; if unavailable, apple juice is a suitable substitute.
  • ¼ cup Apple Cider Vinegar Balances sweetness beautifully; red wine vinegar can be used instead.
  • 2 tablespoons Whole Grain Mustard Contributes texture and robust flavor; yellow mustard can replace it.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Sweetens the dish; feel free to omit for a sugar-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon Grapefruit Juice Adds brightness; this can be omitted for simplicity.
  • 2 Apples, chopped into thin matchsticks Adds delightful texture and sweetness; opt for tart apples like Fuji.
  • 1 Green Cabbage, shredded The base for your slaw; red cabbage is a colorful substitute.
  • ¼ cup Parsley, chopped Adds a refreshing note; cilantro works as a lovely alternative.
  • 1 cup Green Onions, chopped Provide garnish and flavor; regular onions can offer a stronger taste.
  • Sandwich Buns Perfect for serving; gluten-free buns cater to those with dietary restrictions.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

How to Make
  1. Mix the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. Then, rub this flavorful blend evenly over the pork shoulder.
  2. Using kitchen twine, tie the pork shoulder securely to help it cook evenly.
  3. In your slow cooker, add the sliced yellow onions at the base. Spoon in the Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and fresh thyme before positioning the seasoned pork on top.
  4. Pour the apple cider and apple cider vinegar over it. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours, or high for 5 hours.
  5. Once cooked, carefully remove the pork and discard the kitchen twine. Use two forks to shred the pork.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, chopped apples, parsley, and green onions. Whisk together the whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, grapefruit juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the slaw and toss well.
  7. Lightly toast your sandwich buns, then layer them with generous servings of shredded pork and apple slaw. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce on top for an extra kick!

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