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Pulled pork

Sugar free pulled pork

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. or 900g pork shoulder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
  • 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds or 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup organic sugar-free chicken broth

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Prep the Pork Shoulder: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub adhere better and the meat to brown nicely.
  • Mix the Spice Rub: In a small mixing bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin seeds or ground coriander, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • Rub the Pork: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This will infuse the meat with robust flavors.

Stovetop Cooking Method

  • Brown the Pork: Heat a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and brown on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Add the Broth: Once the pork is browned, add the chicken broth to the pot. The liquid should come about halfway up the side of the pork. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Simmer the Pork: Reduce the heat to low and let the pork simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn’t evaporated completely, adding a bit more broth if needed. The pork is done when it’s fork-tender and shreds easily.

Slow Cooker Method

  • Prep as Above: Follow the same steps to prep the pork and spice rub as above.
  • Slow Cooker Cooking: Place the rubbed pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds.

Shredding the Pork

  • Shred the Pork: Remove the cooked pork shoulder from the pot or slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  • Mix with Juices: Return the shredded pork to the pot or slow cooker and mix it with the cooking juices. This keeps the pork moist and flavorful.

Recipe notes and tips

  • Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne   pepper. Add more if you prefer more spicy.
    You can also substitute the coriander or cumin with fennel
  • Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
  • Make-Ahead Meal: This pulled pork is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week in various dishes.