If you're craving some epic pulled pork, you're in for a treat! Try the classic BBQ pulled pork for that tangy goodness, or spice things up with spicy Mexican pulled pork. If you want a tropical twist, sweet and tangy pineapple pork is a winner. Don't miss out on the rich Asian-inspired pulled pork either! Want something bold? Coffee and chipotle will wake up your taste buds! Apple cider pork brings a fruity flair, while teriyaki sandwiches are pure bliss. Each recipe is super easy with the Instant Pot. Stick around, and you'll find more tantalizing recipes to try!
Main Points
- Classic BBQ Pulled Pork combines tangy BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar, cooked for 60 minutes in the Instant Pot for tender results.
- Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork features pineapple chunks and soy sauce, offering a tropical twist perfect for tacos or sandwiches.
- Spicy Mexican Pulled Pork utilizes chili powder and lime for bold flavors, ideally served in tacos or burritos for a rich meal.
- Coffee and Chipotle Pulled Pork combines coffee and chipotle peppers for a unique flavor profile, versatile for sandwiches or salads.
- Maple-Bourbon Pulled Pork balances sweetness with bourbon depth, great for serving on toasted buns with coleslaw for added texture.
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork
Classic BBQ Pulled Pork is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder with a tangy and smoky barbecue sauce. Cooking this meal in the Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also locks in flavors, making every bite incredibly juicy.
The pressure cooker's ability to create a high-pressure environment allows the pork to become fork-tender in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods, such as a smoker or slow cooker.
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, tailgating, or a backyard cookout. The best part is that it's incredibly versatile; you can serve the pulled pork on its own, or pile it high on a bun with coleslaw for an authentic BBQ experience. The balance of spices and sweetness makes this pulled pork a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (of your choice)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Buns (for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
To cook the pulled pork, start by mixing the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a spice rub.
Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated. Next, place the pork shoulder in the Instant Pot and add the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth.
Seal the lid and set the pressure cooker to cook on high for about 60 minutes. Once finished, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes before carefully switching to a quick release.
Remove the pork from the pot, shred it using two forks, and mix it with remaining sauce in the pot.
For the best flavor, let the pulled pork rest for at least 10 minutes after shredding before serving. You may want to adjust the amount of barbecue sauce based on your personal preference.
If you like it spicier, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the spice rub. Additionally, if you enjoy smoky flavors, consider using liquid smoke in your marinade or adding grilled elements by charring the pulled pork before serving.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade BBQ pulled pork!
Spicy Mexican Pulled Pork
If you're looking to spice up your meal repertoire, this Spicy Mexican Pulled Pork recipe is perfect for you. Utilizing the Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and easy, while still delivering that rich, bold flavor that comes from a full day of slow cooking. The combination of spices such as cumin and chili powder pairs beautifully with tender pork, resulting in a dish that's bursting with flavor.
Serve it up in tacos, burritos, or on its own with a side of rice and beans for an authentic Mexican feast. This recipe isn't only delicious, but it also keeps well for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep. The spiciness level can be adjusted depending on your preference or the heat of the chilies you choose.
Don't be afraid to experiment with toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, or avocado for an added freshness that complements the robust flavors of the pulled pork.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnishing)
For cooking, begin by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, cooking for an additional minute before adding the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir until fragrant, then add the pork chunks, coating them well with the spice mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth, squeeze in the lime juice, and close the Instant Pot lid securely. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow for a natural release. Once done, shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the juices in the pot.
When making Spicy Mexican Pulled Pork, feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
Additionally, letting the pulled pork sit in the broth for a while after cooking can help improve the flavors, so don't rush to serve it immediately. And remember, the smoked paprika and cayenne can be swapped out for milder alternatives if you're cooking for those with sensitive palates.
Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Pork
Sweet and tangy pineapple pork is a delightful twist on traditional pulled pork that adds a revitalizing and tropical flavor. The juicy sweetness of pineapple combined with savory pork creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also guarantees that the pork becomes incredibly tender as it absorbs all the flavors from the marinade. Ideal for tacos, sandwiches, or simply served over rice, this recipe is flexible and perfect for any occasion.
To make this dish even more enjoyable, pair it with your favorite sides or toppings. Whether you opt for coleslaw, pickled onions, or a drizzle of zesty barbecue sauce, the sweet and tangy notes of the pineapple pork will complement them perfectly.
Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that brings a taste of the tropics right to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder into large chunks and seasoning it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
In the Instant Pot, combine the pineapple chunks, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to create a marinade. Add the pork to the mixture, making sure it's well coated.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Use two forks to shred the pork, mixing it back into the sauce before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, marinate the pork in the pineapple mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. This allows the meat to become even more tender and flavorful.
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the marinade. Additionally, you can tweak the sweetness by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or pineapple to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy the delicious versatility of this dish!
Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork
Asian-Inspired Pulled Pork Recipe
This Asian-inspired pulled pork recipe takes a classic American dish and infuses it with bold flavors typical of Asian cuisine. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve tender, juicy pulled pork in a fraction of the time it usually takes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
The sweet and savory marinated pork is great served atop steamed rice, in a bun, or in lettuce wraps, allowing for creative presentation and serving options. The key to this recipe is a flavorful marinade that combines soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil.
As the pork cooks under pressure, it absorbs all those aromatic flavors, resulting in a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal, and enjoy this Asian twist on pulled pork that's both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the sesame oil and brown the pork on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, to improve the flavors.
Once browned, remove the pork and set it aside. In the same pot, add garlic and ginger, cooking just until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Return the pork to the pot, close the lid, and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, letting it naturally release for 15 minutes before carefully quick releasing any remaining pressure.
Shred the pork using two forks, mixing it with the juices in the pot for added flavor.
Extra Tips:
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the pork shoulder overnight in the sauce mixture before cooking. This will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Additionally, consider adding some sliced carrots or bell peppers to the pot during cooking for an extra boost of vegetables. Serve your pulled pork with pickled vegetables or coleslaw for a crunchy contrast to the tender meat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Coffee and Chipotle Pulled Pork
Coffee and Chipotle Pulled Pork is a delightful dish that brings together the rich complexity of coffee and the smoky heat of chipotle peppers. This combination not only improves the pork but also brings a unique flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply a hearty meal, this recipe utilizes the Instant Pot for quick and easy cooking, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights.
Using minimal ingredients, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the pork while adding the depth of flavor that coffee provides. The chipotle adds just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish. You'll end up with tender, shreddable pork that can be served on its own, in a sandwich, or atop a fresh salad.
Let's explore this scrumptious recipe that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from the chipotle can
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by heating the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function.
Season the pork pieces generously with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the pork to the pot, browning on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
Once browned, remove the pork and set it aside. In the same pot, combine the brewed coffee, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Stir well and confirm to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the pork to the pot, close the lid, and set it to cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
Once done, allow for a natural release of pressure for 15 minutes before performing a quick release. Shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the juices in the pot before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork overnight in the coffee and chipotle mixture before cooking. This will allow the meat to fully absorb the flavors.
If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can reduce the number of chipotle peppers used or opt for a milder variety of chile.
Additionally, this pulled pork freezes well, making it a great meal prep option; just be sure to store it in airtight containers.
Maple-Bourbon Pulled Pork
Maple-Bourbon Pulled Pork is a delightful twist on the classic pulled pork recipe, marrying the sweetness of maple syrup with the rich, deep flavors of bourbon. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also locks in moisture, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful pork.
This recipe is perfect for gatherings, game day, or a comforting family meal, and can be served in sandwiches, tacos, or on its own with your favorite sides.
To prepare this succulent dish, start by selecting a good cut of pork such as pork shoulder or pork butt, which will yield the best results. The marinade consisting of maple syrup, bourbon, and spices permeates the meat as it cooks, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The result is a mouth-watering creation that's sure to please anyone at your table.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the pork and cutting it into large chunks for faster cooking.
In a mixing bowl, combine maple syrup, bourbon, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
In the Instant Pot, set it to sauté mode and add a small amount of oil. When hot, brown the pork pieces on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the maple-bourbon mixture and add the chicken broth. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, allowing it to naturally release for 15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Shred the pork using two forks and stir back into the sauce.
Extra Tips:
For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the pork in the maple-bourbon mixture overnight in the refrigerator.
Additionally, you can adjust the level of sweetness or bourbon to suit your taste.
Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns with coleslaw for a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.
Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for a quick future meal!
Apple Cider Pulled Pork
Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a delicious twist on the classic pulled pork dish, seamlessly combining savory and sweet flavors. The use of apple cider not only amplifies the meat's tenderness but also infuses it with a delightful fruity note that raises the traditional barbecue experience. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or even as a centerpiece for gatherings, guaranteeing that each bite is packed with flavor and juiciness.
To make this dish, you'll need a few simple ingredients and the convenience of an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process. The quick pressure cooking will develop deep flavors while keeping the pork succulent—making it appear as though it has been slow-cooked for hours. Follow this straightforward recipe for a meal that the whole family will love, served atop buns or with your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Buns or rolls for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
- Your favorite barbecue sauce (optional, for serving)
To cook the Apple Cider Pulled Pork, begin by mixing the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a spice rub.
Pat the pork shoulder dry and apply the spice rub evenly over the meat. Set your Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode and add the sliced onions, cooking until they start to soften. Remove the onions and set them aside.
Add the pork shoulder to the pot, searing for a few minutes on each side until browned. Pour in the apple cider and apple cider vinegar, then add the garlic and cooked onions. Secure the lid and cook on "Manual" mode at high pressure for 60 minutes.
Once done, allow for a natural release for 15 minutes before performing a quick release. Shred the cooked pork with two forks, mixing it with the juices in the pot. Serve on buns, topped with coleslaw or barbecue sauce, if desired.
When preparing Apple Cider Pulled Pork, it's important to choose a well-marbled pork shoulder to guarantee maximum tenderness and flavor.
Allowing the natural release of pressure after cooking helps keep the meat juicy. You can also add other ingredients like chopped apples or a dash of cinnamon to the cooking liquid for additional flavor complexity.
If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate or freeze them, making for enjoyable meals throughout the week!
Teriyaki Pulled Pork Sandwiches
If you're looking to bring a sweet and savory twist to your pulled pork, Teriyaki Pulled Pork Sandwiches are the perfect solution. This delightful recipe combines the rich, melt-in-your-mouth textures of slow-cooked pork with the bold flavors of teriyaki sauce.
Using the Instant Pot not only allows you to cook the pork quickly but also infuses it with deep flavor, making it a family favorite for any occasion. Serve the tender pork piled high on a soft bun with fresh toppings such as coleslaw or sliced green onions for added crunch and flavor.
Whether you're preparing for a casual dinner, a game day, or a summer barbecue, these Teriyaki Pulled Pork Sandwiches will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Hamburger buns, for serving
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, coleslaw, pickled carrots
To make Teriyaki Pulled Pork, start by seasoning the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then place it into the Instant Pot.
In a separate bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the pork in the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow natural release for 15 minutes before switching to quick release. Once all the pressure is released, remove the pork and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded pork to the pot, stir it into the sauce, and serve it warm on hamburger buns with your choice of toppings.
For the best results, allow the pork to marinate in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking—this improves the flavor even more.
Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preference. If you like a hint of heat, consider adding a splash of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Ranch-Seasoned Pulled Pork
Ranch-Seasoned Pulled Pork is a fantastic dish that combines the rich flavors of pork with the zesty seasoning of ranch, creating a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion.
Using an Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also guarantees the pork comes out tender and juicy. This recipe is incredibly simple and is great for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Once you've prepared the pulled pork, you can use it in various ways—serve it on sliders, mix it into salads, or enjoy it as a filling for tacos.
The ranch seasoning gives the pork a delightful kick while maintaining a subtle creaminess, making it a hit with both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent.
Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and the ranch seasoning, then sear it on all sides in the Instant Pot for about 2-3 minutes per side to create a rich crust.
Once browned, add the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar to the pot, making sure to deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom.
Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining steam.
Shred the pork with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the pot before serving.
Extra Tips:
For best flavor, consider marinating the pork in the ranch seasoning and some of the broth for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in an incredibly flavorful dish.
Additionally, you can customize the ranch seasoning by adding your favorite herbs or spices, like crushed red pepper for a bit of heat or extra garlic powder.
Experiment and enjoy this delicious ranch-seasoned pulled pork in different dishes!
Smoky Adobo Pulled Pork
Smoky Adobo Pulled Pork is a delectable and easy dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky flavors from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and the tender, juicy pulled pork creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave your guests wanting more.
Using an Instant Pot considerably speeds up the cooking process while maintaining the rich flavors and juicy texture we all love in pulled pork. This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, as you can easily prepare the pork and serve it in a variety of ways, such as piled high on soft buns or served alongside rice and beans.
The versatility of this dish makes it a staple in many households, and once you master this recipe, you'll want to experiment with different toppings and sides to enhance this incredible dish.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or butt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1/4 cup adobo sauce from the chipotle can
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the Smoky Adobo Pulled Pork, first, season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and brown sugar.
In your Instant Pot, heat the olive oil using the sauté function, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the seasoned pork to the pot and sear it on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and chicken broth, ensuring the pork is covered with the sauce mixture. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. After cooking, allow for a natural release of pressure for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Shred the pork with two forks, mixing it with the sauce, and serve.
When cooking Smoky Adobo Pulled Pork, be mindful of the level of heat from the chipotle peppers, as it can vary greatly; you can easily adjust the number of peppers or the amount of adobo sauce to suit your heat preference.
If you prefer an even more intense smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and can also be easily frozen for future meals—just reheat before serving.
Enjoy crafting this delectable dish!