Pulled Pork Sliders
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg (approx 3 lbs) pork shoulder or pork butt
- 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar
- 1 tbsp (15g) smoked paprika
- 2 tsp (10g) garlic powder
- 2 tsp (10g) onion powder
- 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (5g) black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15g) sea salt
- 250ml (1 cup) apple cider vinegar
- 1 onion, sliced
- 350ml (1.5 cups) barbecue sauce
- Sweet Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
- Coleslaw mix (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and sea salt. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Step 2: Slow Cooking
Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the seasoned pork shoulder on top. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Step 3: Shredding the Pork
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it in a large mixing bowl. Use forks to shred the meat, discarding any excess fat. Skim the fat from the liquid left in the slow cooker and return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Adding Barbecue Sauce
Pour the barbecue sauce over the shredded pork in the slow cooker. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Preparing the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the slider buns or rolls in half, if not pre-sliced. Arrange the bottom halves on a roasting pan and generously pile the pulled pork onto each. If desired, add a spoonful of coleslaw on top for added crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders. If you like your buns slightly toasted, place the pan in the oven for 5-7 minutes. This will give them a light, crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft pork.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a delightful platter of Pulled Pork Sliders that is sure to impress and delight. This recipe captures the spirit of a classic barbecue feast with its blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors all wrapped up in a portable, bite-sized package. Whether savored as a main course or served as a party snack, these sliders are sure to leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy these gastronomical wonders and don’t hesitate to share your own culinary twists that make this dish uniquely yours.
