Description

Learn how to make the most tender and flavorful Dutch Oven Pulled Pork with my easy step-by-step directions! This is the ultimate one-pot meal—just sear, braise, and let the oven do the work. The result? Juicy, fall-apart pulled pork that’s packed with rich, savory flavor.

Ingredients
  • 4 1/2-5 pounds pork shoulder (trimmed and cut into 6 equal pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (large diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (smashed)
  • Spice Rub
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (or cayenne)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • Braising Liquid
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
  1. Preheat an oven to 300°F and arrange the rack to the bottom position.

  2. In a small bowl mix together the spices for the spice rub. Pat the pork dry and rub the spice mix all over the pieces.

  3. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear each piece of pork on all sides until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.

  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add diced onions and smashed garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom. Now add in all of the braising ingredients. Stir well.

  5. Return the pork to the Dutch oven, cover, and place in the preheated oven. Cook for 3 to 3 ½ hours or until the meat is fall-apart tender.

  6. Remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding. Serve with the braising liquid for extra flavor! Enjoy!

Note
  • Let it rest – Allowing the meat to sit before shredding helps retain its juices.
  • Use the braising liquid – The sauce is packed with flavor—don’t let it go to waste! Drizzle it over the pulled pork or serve it on the side for dipping.
  • Storing Pulled Pork - Pulled pork stores well and tastes even better the next day. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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