Instant Pot Pulled Pork: The Ultimate Guide On How To Cook Pulled Pork In The Instant Pot!
What To Know
- Opt for a pork shoulder or butt, as these cuts have a higher fat content that will render down during cooking, resulting in juicy and tender meat.
- You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish or use it as an ingredient in other recipes.
- Yes, you can store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Craving succulent, fall-off-the-bone pulled pork without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than the Instant Pot, the revolutionary kitchen appliance that makes cooking pulled pork a breeze. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, empowering you to create mouthwatering pulled pork in your Instant Pot with ease.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork
The key to tender and flavorful pulled pork lies in selecting the right cut of meat. Opt for a pork shoulder or butt, as these cuts have a higher fat content that will render down during cooking, resulting in juicy and tender meat.
Marinating the Pork
To enhance the flavor of the pulled pork, consider marinating it for at least 2 hours or overnight. Create a flavorful marinade by combining your favorite spices, herbs, and liquids, such as barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, or orange juice.
Seasoning the Pork
Once marinated, remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry. Generously season the pork with salt and pepper, or your preferred blend of spices. This step will help create a flavorful crust.
Cooking the Pulled Pork
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pound pork shoulder or butt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce or marinade
- 1 cup water or broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Add the pork, barbecue sauce, water, onion, and garlic to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
3. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and cook on high pressure for 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of the pork shoulder.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes before opening the lid.
Shredding the Pork
Using two forks, shred the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces. If desired, return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and add additional barbecue sauce or seasonings to taste.
Serving the Pulled Pork
Serve the pulled pork on buns or tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or onions. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish or use it as an ingredient in other recipes.
Additional Tips
- For extra flavor: Add a splash of liquid smoke to the marinade or cooking liquid.
- For a crispy crust: Broil the shredded pork in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- For a slow-cooked flavor: Cook the pulled pork on low pressure for a longer period of time, such as 8-10 hours.
The Secrets to Perfect Pulled Pork
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 205°F for optimal tenderness.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking can result in dry and tough meat.
- Rest the pork: Let the pork rest for 15-30 minutes before shredding to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Shred against the grain: This will help create tender and juicy pulled pork.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen pork shoulder in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen pork shoulder in the Instant Pot. Increase the cooking time by 20-30 minutes.
Q: How do I make pulled pork without barbecue sauce?
A: You can season the pork with your preferred blend of spices and herbs, such as salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
Q: Can I store leftover pulled pork?
A: Yes, you can store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.