⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 2 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 70 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 1 lb Pork shoulder
• 1/4 cup Brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Paprika
• 1 tbsp Garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp Liquid smoke
• 1 cup Water or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Memphis-style BBQ sauce

📖 Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the pork shoulder, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and liquid smoke. Mix well, ensuring that all the pork is coated evenly. Don't be shy with that seasoning!
2. If using a slow cooker, transfer the seasoned pork to the slow cooker. Add 1 cup of water or chicken broth to the bottom. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. If you're not a fan of slow cookers, and who can blame you, skip to the next step.
3. If cooking on the stovetop, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and brown the pork shoulder on all sides. This helps develop a nice crust. It's important for flavor, you know!
4. Once browned, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 cup of water or chicken broth. Cover the pot and simmer for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender enough to easily shred with two forks. Check it every once in a while! Don't want it to burn!
5. Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from the heat. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Don't rush me on this one!
6. Use two forks to shred the pork. Make sure to discard any large pieces of fat. Trust me on this, nobody likes a fatty burger.
7. In a separate bowl, mix the shredded pork with your homemade or store-bought Memphis-style BBQ sauce. Mix until the pork is well coated. Taste as you go. Is it tangy enough? Spicy enough? A little more sugar?
8. To assemble the burger, place a generous portion of the BBQ pulled pork on your favorite bun. Top with your favorite burger toppings (coleslaw, onion rings, pickles, cheese, etc.) and enjoy! You deserve it!

📝 Notes

• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness.
• Feel free to add other spices to your liking.
• For an even smokier flavor, you can use wood chips in your smoker or grill while cooking the pork shoulder. But that's only for advanced players!
• Don't overcook the pork or it will dry out! Remember the 190°F temperature?
• This recipe makes enough pulled pork for about two large burgers or several smaller ones. Enjoy!