In this recipe, the boneless pork shoulder, along with slices of onion and a can of ginger ale were slowly cooked for 8 hours. It was then shredded apart and coated with a sauce mixture of apple jelly, ketchup, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, garlic powder and ground ginger. My family and I enjoyed this sweet tangy pulled pork on a bun with creamy coleslaw. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork
To achieve the best pulled pork, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. A boneless pork shoulder is ideal because it has enough fat to keep the meat juicy and tender during the long cooking process. Make sure to season the meat well before adding it to the slow cooker. A simple rub of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices can enhance the flavor. If you have time, searing the pork in a skillet for a few minutes before slow cooking can add an extra layer of richness. When the cooking time is up, resist the temptation to shred the meat immediately. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before pulling it apart. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. Lastly, feel free to adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s settings, as some cook faster than others. A good rule of thumb is to check the meat after 6 hours on low and see if it shreds easily.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These ginger ale pulled pork sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the meal with some tasty sides. A classic coleslaw pairs perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and a refreshing flavor that complements the sweet and tangy pork. For a heartier option, consider serving the sandwiches with baked beans. The smoky flavors of the beans will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the pulled pork. If you want to keep it light, a simple side salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meat. For drinks, try pairing the sandwiches with a cold glass of ginger ale or a light beer. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, iced tea or lemonade works well too. And don’t forget to add some pickles or jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat and acidity. These small touches can take your meal from good to great.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of ginger ale?
If you don’t have ginger ale on hand, you can substitute it with another soda like lemon-lime soda or even root beer for a different flavor twist. Just remember that the sweetness will vary, so adjust other ingredients if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the pulled pork cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make this pulled pork ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pulled pork a day in advance and store it in the fridge after cooking. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
What are some good side dishes to serve with pulled pork sandwiches?
Coleslaw is a classic pairing, but you can also try baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato salad for a nice spread. A simple green salad can also balance out the meal.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making pulled pork?
One common mistake is not seasoning the meat enough before cooking. Another is shredding the pork too soon after it’s done, which can result in less juicy meat. Let it rest for about 15 minutes for the best texture.
Slow Cooker Ginger Ale Pulled Pork Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 2 kg boneless pork shoulder
- 1 355- mL can ginger ale
For the sauce:
- 1 cup apple jelly
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Tabasco sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
Instructions
- Spread onion slices evenly at the bottom insert of slow cooker. Trim skin and any excess fat from pork and place over the onion. Pour in ginger ale. Cover and cook on low until meat is very tender, about 8 hours.
- Remove pork from the slow cooker and place on a large dish. Using two forks, pull the meat apart. Drain the onion and place on a small bowl. Discard the liquid from the slow cooker.
- Whisk together apple jelly, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire, Tabasco, garlic powder and ground ginger in a large saucepan, then set over medium-high. Bring to a boil, whisking, until apple jelly is dissolved and sauce is smooth, 6 to 8 min.
- Add shredded pork and onion to the sauce in the pan. Stir until all meat is coated with sauce. Remove from heat.
- Serve on toasted Kaiser buns with coleslaw.
Notes
Nutrition
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