Get ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Honey Balsamic Pulled Pork is not just another recipe – it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, tender goodness of slow-cooked pork with a tantalizing blend of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar. Imagine meat so tender it practically melts in your mouth, infused with a glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. Whether you're hosting a weekend barbecue or looking for a show-stopping weeknight meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 3 lbs of pork shoulder, 1/2 cup of honey, 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your slow cooker on the low setting. This will help ensure that your pork cooks evenly over the next 8 hours.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and form a smooth marinade.
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker. Pour the honey-balsamic marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. You can use a spoon to spread the marinade evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the pork to become tender and flavorful.
- After 8 hours, check the pork shoulder. It should be fork-tender and easily shred with a fork. If it’s not tender enough, you can cook it for an additional hour.
- Once the pork is ready, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining juices and marinade. This will ensure that the pork is moist and flavorful.
- Serve the honey balsamic pulled pork warm. It can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, or as a filling for tacos. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Always use pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) for pulled pork. Its high fat content ensures maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The 8-hour slow cooking time is crucial for breaking down the meat's connective tissues.
- Don't Skip Seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the meat's natural flavors.
- Marinade Magic: Whisk the honey-balsamic mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Shredding Technique: Use two forks to pull the meat apart, creating those classic pulled pork strands.
- Moisture is Key: Always return the shredded meat to the cooking liquid to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Serving Suggestions: Try serving on brioche buns, as a taco filling, or over a bed of creamy coleslaw for maximum deliciousness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
