Introduction
Hey there! Have you ever craved a delicious pulled pork sandwich but didn’t want to spend hours slow-cooking it? Well, I’ve got the perfect solution for you – Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches! With the help of everyone’s favorite kitchen gadget, the Instant Pot, you can have tender and flavorful pulled pork ready in no time. Trust me, this recipe will become a game-changer in your kitchen. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make these mouthwatering sandwiches!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this recipe when I’m in the mood for a hearty and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. My family goes crazy for these pulled pork sandwiches because they are packed with flavor and the meat is incredibly tender. Plus, the Instant Pot does all the work for you, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. It’s a win-win situation!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. I sometimes use a different type of barbecue sauce or add a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick. Play around with the flavors and make it your own!
Directions
1. Start by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Rub the spices all over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a drizzle of oil. Once the pot is hot, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it develops a nice brown crust. This step will help lock in the flavors.
3. Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are full of flavor and will enhance the taste of the pulled pork.
5. Return the pork shoulder to the Instant Pot and pour in the barbecue sauce. Add the brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients.
6. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the sealing position. Cook the pork on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes, depending on the size of your pork shoulder. The meat should be fork-tender and easily shred apart.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release by turning the pressure release valve to the venting position. Be cautious of the hot steam.
8. Remove the pork shoulder from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. The meat should be incredibly tender and easy to pull apart. If desired, you can skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid.
9. Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and give it a good toss in the flavorful sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
10. Now, it’s time to assemble your pulled pork sandwiches! Grab your favorite burger buns or rolls and load them up with a generous amount of the tender pulled pork. Feel free to add some coleslaw, pickles, or any other toppings you love. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
This recipe is incredibly versatile. If you don’t have a pork shoulder, you can use pork tenderloin or even chicken instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
For a smokier flavor, you can add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce mixture. It will give your pulled pork that authentic barbeque taste.
If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture. Adjust the heat level to your liking!
Variations
While this recipe is already delicious as is, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own pulled pork masterpiece. Here are a few variations I’ve tried:
1. Asian-inspired Pulled Pork: Replace the barbecue sauce with a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger. Serve the pulled pork on steamed bao buns with pickled vegetables.
2. Mexican-style Pulled Pork: Add cumin, oregano, and a touch of chipotle powder to the seasoning mixture. Serve the pulled pork in warm tortillas with salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.
3. Sweet and Spicy Pulled Pork: Mix barbecue sauce with honey, sriracha, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns with a creamy slaw.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new flavor combinations. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite!
Equipment
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the Instant Pot. It’s a versatile kitchen gadget that makes cooking meals a breeze. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make pulled pork using a slow cooker or even a Dutch oven. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If you don’t have a meat shredder, you can easily shred the pork using two forks. It might take a bit longer, but the end result will be just as delicious!
Storage
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store the pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving pulled pork sandwiches, there are no rules! However, I personally love to serve them with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato wedges. The combination of the tender pulled pork and the crunchy fries is simply irresistible. Give it a try!
Pro Tips
1. Don’t skip the step of searing the pork shoulder before cooking it in the Instant Pot. It adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the pulled pork.
2. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought barbecue sauce instead of making your own. Just make sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best results.
3. For an even richer flavor, you can marinate the pork shoulder in the seasoning mixture overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful pulled pork.
4. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the cooking liquid in a saucepan until it reduces and thickens. Then, pour it over the shredded pork for an extra burst of flavor.
5. I highly recommend toasting the burger buns or rolls before assembling the sandwiches. It adds a nice crunch and prevents the bread from getting soggy.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While pork shoulder is the traditional choice for pulled pork sandwiches, you can use other cuts like pork tenderloin or even boneless pork chops. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat you choose.
Q: Can I freeze the pulled pork?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make delicious pulled pork using a slow cooker or a Dutch oven. Simply follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Slow-cook the pork on low heat for 8-10 hours or until it’s fork-tender.
Alright, my friend, you’re now equipped with everything you need to make these Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful and tender dish. Enjoy!
Easy Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Delicious and tender pulled pork sandwiches made effortlessly using the Instant Pot. Packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
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Start by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Rub the spices all over the meat, ensuring it's evenly coated.
-
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a drizzle of oil. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it develops a nice brown crust.
-
Remove the pork shoulder and sauté onion and garlic in the pot until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth, scrape off any browned bits from the pot.
-
Return the pork shoulder to the Instant Pot, add barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
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Cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
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Shred the pork, remove excess fat if desired, and return to the pot. Toss in the sauce and let it sit for a few minutes.
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Assemble pulled pork sandwiches with your favorite toppings and serve.