Best Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe for Tender, Flavorful Meat

Pulled pork is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served on its own. Using an Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy, resulting in tender, juicy pork with minimal effort. This recipe guarantees flavorful, fall-apart pork every time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt), cut into large chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1/4 cup tomato ketchup (optional, for added sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for smoky flavor)

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add olive oil and once hot, sear the pork shoulder pieces in batches until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
2. Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
3. Return the pork to the pot. In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, tomato ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and liquid smoke. Pour this mixture over the pork.
4. Close the lid securely and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
5. Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and transfer the pork to a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
7. If you want a thicker sauce, turn the Instant Pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode and simmer the cooking liquid for 5-10 minutes until reduced. Pour over the shredded pork and toss to combine.
8. Serve the pulled pork hot, or store for later use.

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the pork with spices and a little vinegar overnight before cooking.
• If you prefer a smoky flavor, add more liquid smoke or a smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.
• Use pork shoulder rather than pork loin, as it contains more connective tissue that breaks down into tender, juicy meat.
• To prevent drying out, avoid overcooking; 60 minutes under pressure is ideal for a tender but not mushy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pulled pork on soft buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, or in tacos with fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and cilantro.

Variations

Try adding different spices such as cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern twist, or incorporate BBQ sauce after shredding for a smoky, sweet flavor. You can also experiment with different liquids like beer or cola for unique tastes. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

Storage and Reheating

Stored in an airtight container, pulled pork keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, or reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?

Pork loin is leaner and cooks faster, but it can dry out and become tough if cooked under pressure for too long. For best results, stick with pork shoulder, which is more forgiving and yields tender, juicy pulled pork.

How do I make the pulled pork spicier?

Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix before cooking. You can also serve with hot sauce or sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick.

Can I cook frozen pork in the Instant Pot?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for safety, and check that the pork is cooked through before shredding.

What if I don’t have liquid smoke?

Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a similar smoky aroma. Alternatively, add a small amount of smoked salt.

Should I remove excess fat before serving?

Yes, pork shoulder can be fatty. After shredding, let the meat sit for a few minutes to allow fat to rise to the top, then skim off excess fat before serving for a leaner dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your Instant Pot is not more than two-thirds full to allow proper pressure buildup. Adjust the cooking time if needed and follow the same steps.

Enjoy your flavorful, tender instant pot pulled pork anytime you crave a comforting, versatile dish that’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

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