Easy instant pot pulled pork recipe: step-by-step guide for beginners

• 3-4 pound pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” setting. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering.
2. Brown the Pork: Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. Place it in the Instant Pot and brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Season the Pork: In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, dry mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork shoulder.
6. Cook on High Pressure: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” setting and cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes.
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
8. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and stir to combine with the remaining juices. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a bone-in pork shoulder.
• Add a splash of beer or apple juice to the Instant Pot for extra moisture.
• If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make your own using ketchup, brown sugar, and spices.
• Serve the pulled pork with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, baked beans, or coleslaw.

Variations:

• Spicy Pulled Pork: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mixture.
• Sweet Pulled Pork: Add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mixture.
• Smoky Pulled Pork: Add 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the seasoning mixture.

How to Store and Reheat:

• Store: Store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Reheat the pulled pork in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on buns with your favorite toppings.
• Pulled Pork Tacos: Fill tortillas with pulled pork and top with cilantro, onion, and salsa.
• Pulled Pork Bowls: Layer rice, pulled pork, beans, and vegetables in a bowl. Top with your favorite sauce.
• Pulled Pork Pizza: Spread pulled pork over a pizza crust and top with cheese and vegetables.

The Science Behind the Recipe:

The Instant Pot uses high pressure to cook food quickly and efficiently. The pressurized environment breaks down the connective tissue in the pork shoulder, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The combination of seasonings and sauces infuses the pork with a rich and flavorful taste.

Wrap-Up:

This Instant Pot pulled pork recipe is a culinary masterpiece that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its tender meat, flavorful sauce, and versatility, it is a perfect dish for any occasion. So fire up your Instant Pot and embark on a culinary odyssey with this delectable pulled pork recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a boneless pork shoulder?
A: Yes, you can use either a bone-in or boneless pork shoulder. The bone-in shoulder will add extra flavor, but the boneless shoulder will be easier to shred.
Q: How long can I cook the pork for?
A: You can cook the pork for 60-90 minutes on High Pressure. The longer you cook it, the more tender it will be.
Q: What is the best way to shred the pork?
A: Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. You can also use a meat shredder or electric mixer.
Q: Can I make the pulled pork ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the pulled pork ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with pulled pork?
A: Some good side dishes to serve with pulled pork include mashed potatoes, baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread.