Pin to Board Succulent pulled pork slow-cooked and finished over open flame, tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, and piled high on toasted buns. Perfect for a hearty, rustic dinner with vibrant herb notes and a touch of fire-charred flavor.
This pulled pork sandwich recipe brings the perfect balance of spice and smoky flavors I love, especially when cooked slowly to tender perfection.
Ingredients
- Pork & Marinade: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless pork shoulder, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking Liquid: 250 ml (1 cup) apple cider or apple juice, 80 ml (1/3 cup) chicken broth, 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ Sauce & Herbs: 240 ml (1 cup) smoky barbecue sauce, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped, 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- Sandwich Assembly: 6 brioche or rustic sandwich buns, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 cup coleslaw (optional), 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a small bowl combine smoked paprika cumin garlic powder onion powder thyme oregano salt and pepper. Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil then with the spice mixture.
- Step 2:
- Place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add apple cider chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until pork is very tender and shreds easily.
- Step 3:
- Preheat a grill or large cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Step 4:
- Remove the pork from the cooking liquid shred with two forks and toss with half the BBQ sauce and chopped fresh herbs.
- Step 5:
- Place the shredded pork in a grill basket or directly on the skillet. Sear for 3 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the pork develops crispy fire-kissed edges.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile butter the inside of each bun and toast on the grill or skillet until golden.
- Step 7:
- Pile the pulled pork onto toasted buns. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce top with red onions and coleslaw if desired. Serve immediately.
Pin to Board This recipe has become a family favorite around our dinner table, especially when served with a crisp lager or a zesty rosé to complement the smoky flavors.
Required Tools
Slow cooker or Dutch oven Grill or large cast-iron skillet Mixing bowls Grill basket (optional) Tongs Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (buns) Soy (Worcestershire sauce and some BBQ sauces) May contain Egg Dairy (buns and butter) Always check labels if serving those with allergies
Nutritional Information
Calories 570 Total Fat 23 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 36 g
Pin to Board 
Enjoy these fire-kissed BBQ pulled pork sandwiches fresh off the grill for the best flavor.
Common Questions
- → What cut of pork is best for this dish?
Boneless pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling and texture, which becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- → How does the fire-kissed searing affect the flavor?
Searing the shredded pork over high heat creates crispy edges that deepen the smoky, charred notes, adding texture and complexity.
- → Can I prepare the pork without a slow cooker?
Yes, using a Dutch oven on low heat replicates slow cooking, gently breaking down the meat for tender results.
- → What herbs complement the smoky BBQ sauce in this dish?
Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme bring brightness and subtle freshness, balancing the rich barbecue sauce.
- → Are there suggestions to customize the heat level?
Adding cayenne pepper to the spice rub or serving with pickled jalapeños can provide a spicier kick tailored to taste.