BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are a beloved comfort food that brings joy to any gathering or family dinner. The combination of tender, smoky pork infused with rich flavors, all nestled in a soft bun, is simply irresistible. With the convenience of an Instant Pot, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. The smoky sweetness of the pulled pork, paired with your favorite BBQ sauce, creates a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or festive celebrations, these sandwiches are a true delight.
Ingredients
– 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Hamburger buns, for serving
– Optional: coleslaw for topping
Instructions
1. Begin by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder and cutting it into large chunks for easier cooking.
2. In the Instant Pot, select the “Sauté” function and add a drizzle of oil. Once heated, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the pork shoulder chunks to the pot, followed by apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine and coat the pork with the seasonings.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to “Manual” mode for 60 minutes on high pressure.
5. After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
6. Once the pressure is fully released, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot, mixing it with the juices for added flavor.
7. Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns, topped with optional coleslaw if desired.
Understanding the Ingredients
Pork Shoulder: The Star of the Show
Pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is the ideal cut of meat for pulled pork sandwiches. This section of the pig is well-marbled, which means it contains a good amount of fat that renders down during cooking, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Cooking it low and slow allows the connective tissues to break down, making it easy to shred and full of flavor.
The Aromatics: Onion and Garlic
The combination of diced onion and minced garlic is essential in building a rich flavor base for this dish. Onions add sweetness and depth, while garlic contributes a savory note that enhances the overall taste of the pulled pork.
The Sweet and Smoky Components
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in BBQ pulled pork relies heavily on the sweet and smoky components. Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess that cuts through the richness of the pork, while BBQ sauce provides sweetness and a smoky essence. Brown sugar plays a crucial role in caramelizing the meat and enhancing its natural flavors.
Seasoning the Pork
A blend of spices is crucial for elevating the taste of the pulled pork. Smoked paprika lends a deep smokiness, while ground cumin adds warmth and earthiness. Black pepper and salt are fundamental seasonings, and cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences, allowing for a personalized flavor profile.
The Coleslaw: A Crunchy Contrast
While not mandatory, a crunchy coleslaw can be a delightful topping for your BBQ pulled pork sandwiches. The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the tender pork, adding an extra layer of flavor. You can customize your coleslaw with different ingredients, such as carrots, cabbage, and a tangy dressing, to suit your taste.
The Instant Pot Method
Using an Instant Pot to prepare BBQ pulled pork simplifies the cooking process significantly. The pressure cooking method locks in flavors and moisture, resulting in tender meat in a fraction of the time compared to traditional slow-cooking methods. The Instant Pot also allows for easy cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks.
Searing the Pork
Searing the pork shoulder is a crucial step in developing rich flavor in your BBQ pulled pork. Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and allowing it to heat up. Once hot, add a small amount of oil to the pot, then carefully place the pork in the pot. Sear the meat on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
The Maillard reaction during searing enhances the depth of flavor, making your final dish even more delicious. Make sure to avoid overcrowding the pot; if your pork shoulder is large, consider cutting it into smaller pieces to ensure even browning.
Sautéing Aromatics
After searing, it’s time to build a flavor base by sautéing aromatics. Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside, then add chopped onions and minced garlic to the hot pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant—about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential, as the sweetness from the onions and the pungency of the garlic will infuse the pork with a delightful taste.
Deglazing the Pot
To enhance the flavor and prevent the dreaded burn notice during pressure cooking, deglaze the pot using apple cider vinegar. Pour a splash into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This not only adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce but also ensures that your Instant Pot can come to pressure without issues.
Pressure Cooking: The Time-Saving Advantage
One of the standout features of the Instant Pot is its ability to tenderize tough cuts of meat quickly. Once the aromatics are sautéed and the pot is deglazed, return the pork to the pot, add your favorite BBQ sauce, and seal the lid. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, depending on the size of your pork shoulder.
After the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release to ensure the meat remains juicy and tender. This method avoids the risk of dry, overcooked pork and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Shredding the Pork
Once your pork is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and use two forks to shred the meat. It’s important to return the shredded pork to the pot along with any remaining sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your BBQ pulled pork sandwiches.
Final Assembly: Building the Sandwiches
To assemble your sandwiches, start by toasting your favorite buns for added texture. Pile a generous portion of the pulled pork onto each bun, and consider adding a scoop of coleslaw for a delightful crunch and a fresh contrast to the smoky sweetness of the BBQ. Pickles or jalapeños can also add an extra zing if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with classic coleslaw, baked beans, or potato salad for a true BBQ feast. For drinks, sweet tea, lemonade, or a light beer can complement the rich flavors of the pork, enhancing your overall meal experience.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Smoky Sweet Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the size of the sandwich and the ingredients used. This dish is a good source of protein, providing around 25-30 grams per serving, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the buns.
Conclusion
Smoky Sweet Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a flavorful and convenient option for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard BBQ gathering. Their rich taste and easy preparation make them a crowd-pleaser, and the Instant Pot ensures that you can enjoy tender, juicy pork in a fraction of the time. Embrace the joy of cooking this dish at home and share the deliciousness with your loved ones, creating lasting memories around the table.
