Carolina Pulled Pork Recipe Crock Pot Made Easy and Tasty

If you’re craving tender, flavorful pulled pork with a tangy Carolina twist, this Carolina pulled pork recipe crock pot is just what you need. Slow cooking the pork shoulder in your crock pot allows the meat to become incredibly juicy and tender, making it easy to shred and perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply served with your favorite sides.

Carolina-style pulled pork is known for its distinctive vinegar-based sauce that brings a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the pork. Whether you’re planning a casual weekend get-together or just want a no-fuss meal prep option, this recipe delivers Southern comfort food right to your table with minimal effort.

The crock pot does all the hard work while you relax, and the result is mouthwatering pulled pork that tastes like it’s been simmering all day on a smoker. This recipe combines simple pantry staples with authentic Southern flavors to create an unforgettable meal.

Ready to impress your family and friends with this classic dish? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Carolina pulled pork is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Using a crock pot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your day for other activities while the pork cooks low and slow to perfection.

The vinegar-based sauce is a hallmark of Carolina BBQ, giving the pork a bright and tangy flavor that balances the richness beautifully.

Key reasons to love this recipe:

• Hands-off cooking: The crock pot does all the work, making it great for busy days.
• Authentic flavor: The vinegar and spices create the classic Carolina BBQ taste.
• Versatile: Serve it on buns, over rice, or in tacos for a crowd-pleasing meal.
• Budget-friendly: Pork shoulder is an affordable cut that yields plenty of servings.

Ingredients

• 4-5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth

Equipment

• Crock pot (slow cooker) – at least 6-quart capacity
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl for sauce
• Tongs or fork for shredding pork
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Large serving platter or bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork shoulder: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder if desired. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Place the pork in the crock pot: Put the pork shoulder inside your crock pot and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top.
4. Add liquid: Pour the water or chicken broth around the pork to keep it moist while cooking.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 6 hours. The pork should be very tender and easily shreddable.
6. Shred the pork: Remove the pork from the crock pot and place it on a large cutting board or platter. Use two forks or tongs to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
7. Mix shredded pork with sauce: Return the shredded pork to the crock pot and stir it into the remaining sauce. Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes on low to absorb the flavors.
8. Serve and enjoy: Spoon the pulled pork onto buns or plates, and garnish with coleslaw or your favorite toppings if desired.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, let the pulled pork sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Make it smoky: Incorporate a teaspoon of liquid smoke into the sauce for a smoky flavor without a smoker.
• Coleslaw topping: Carolina pulled pork pairs beautifully with a classic or vinegar-based coleslaw for added crunch and tang.
• Leftover ideas: Use leftover pulled pork in quesadillas, tacos, or even on top of baked potatoes for delicious second meals.
• Substitute pork: For a leaner option, try using pork loin, but cooking time may be shorter and meat less tender.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Try these ideas for a complete meal experience:

• Classic pulled pork sandwiches with soft hamburger buns and a scoop of creamy coleslaw.
• Over steamed white rice or brown rice for a simple, satisfying plate.
• In corn or flour tortillas topped with pickled onions and fresh cilantro for a Carolina-style taco twist.
• With roasted vegetables or baked beans on the side for a hearty southern-inspired feast.
• As a filling for savory crepes or stuffed baked potatoes for an unexpected treat.

Conclusion

Making Carolina pulled pork in a crock pot is one of the easiest ways to enjoy authentic Southern BBQ at home. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a succulent, flavorful meal that will impress family and friends alike.

The tangy vinegar-based sauce perfectly complements the tender pork, creating a well-balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, family dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making your effort stretch even further.

For more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out our Best Vegan Slowcooker Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals, Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Get your crock pot ready, and enjoy the rich, authentic flavors of Carolina pulled pork made easy!

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