Pin It 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 recipe combines the deep smoky flavors of BBQ sauce with fire-kissed pork for a truly memorable sandwich experience.
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 It Making this sandwich always turns into a fun family gathering with everyone eager to build their own.
Notes
For a spicier kick add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the rub or serve with pickled jalapeños
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
Pin It This BBQ pulled pork sandwich is a perfect blend of smoky and savory flavors ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the fire-kissed edges on the pork?
After slow cooking, sear the shredded pork in a hot grill pan or cast-iron skillet for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop crispy, charred edges.
- → What can I use if I don't have a slow cooker?
A Dutch oven works well; cook the pork covered at low heat in the oven or on the stovetop until tender and shreddable.
- → Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Yes, the pork can be slow-cooked and shredded a day ahead; reheat and sear just before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → Are there options for a spicier flavor profile?
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the spice rub or serve with pickled jalapeños to introduce a spicy kick.
- → What buns work best for this dish?
Brioche or rustic sandwich buns are ideal; butter and toast them on the grill or skillet for a golden, crispy finish.
- → How do the fresh herbs complement the pork?
Parsley, chives, and thyme add vibrant, fresh notes that balance the smoky richness of the pulled pork.