The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious, Well-Seasoned, and Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering pulled pork sliders! Perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe features slow-cooked, spicy pulled pork served on soft slider buns, topped with a creamy coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch. Let’s dive into this delightful dish!
Ingredients
For the Pulled Pork:
– 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your spice preference)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of brand)
For the Coleslaw:
– 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
– 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls work well)
– Pickles (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Pork
1. Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend will give your pulled pork a deep, rich flavor.
2. Sear the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder generously with the spice mixture. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step builds flavor!
3. Slow Cook the Pork: Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and barbecue sauce together. Pour this mixture over the pork. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Coleslaw
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until the coleslaw is well combined and adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 3: Shred the Pork
1. Shred: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.
2. Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it with the cooking juices for added flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
1. Prepare the Buns: Lightly toast the slider buns if desired.
2. Build Your Sliders: Place a generous spoonful of pulled pork on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a spoonful of coleslaw and any optional toppings like pickles.
3. Serve: Place the top half of the bun on each slider and serve immediately.
Tips and Notes
– Make Ahead: You can prepare the pulled pork a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
– Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. You can also add hot sauce to the pulled pork for an extra kick!
– Storage: Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
– Pairing: These sliders pair wonderfully with potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.
Nutritional Information
Approximate calories per slider (1 slider with pork and coleslaw): 350 calories
Please note that calorie counts may vary based on ingredients and serving sizes.
Want More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved this recipe, you’ll definitely want to check out our eBook filled with more mouthwatering recipes that will impress your family and friends! Plus, don’t forget to pre-order our new cookbook “Deliciously Fit,” featuring healthy meal options perfect for weight loss without sacrificing flavor.
Happy Cooking!
Enjoy your delicious pulled pork sliders and be sure to share your creations with us!
