Deliciously Smoky and Tender: Slow Cooked Pork Shoulder Picnic Recipe
Are you craving the rich, smoky flavor of smoked pork shoulder picnic? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to cook this mouthwatering dish in a slow cooker. This hassle-free method will have you enjoying fall-off-the-bone tender pork with minimal effort. So, let’s get started and satisfy those taste buds!
What You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather these ingredients:
- 4-5 pound smoked pork shoulder picnic
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite dry rub (we recommend a blend of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of your preferred BBQ sauce
- Hamburger buns or bread rolls for serving
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to achieve tender, flavorful smoked pork shoulder picnic:
- Prepare the pork: Start by thoroughly patting the pork shoulder picnic dry with a paper towel. This step helps the dry rub adhere better to the meat.
- Apply the dry rub: Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over the pork shoulder picnic, massaging it into every nook and cranny. The dry rub enhances the smoky flavor and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Set up your slow cooker: Place the seasoned pork shoulder picnic into the slow cooker. Add the apple cider vinegar to the cooker, ensuring it covers the bottom but does not submerge the meat.
- Cook low and slow: Set your slow cooker to low heat. Cover and let the pork shoulder picnic cook for 8-10 hours. This long cooking time allows the meat to become tender and infuses it with a smoky aroma.
- Shred the pork: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the cooked pork shoulder picnic from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat to your desired consistency. Pro tip: Save some of the cooking liquid to moisten the meat during shredding.
- Time for BBQ sauce: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix in your preferred BBQ sauce. This step adds a tangy, sweet flavor to complement the smokiness of the meat. Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your slow-cooked smoked pork shoulder picnic is ready, it’s time to serve up a delicious meal! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Load up a soft hamburger bun or bread roll with a generous amount of the shredded pork. Top it off with some creamy coleslaw for added freshness.
- Pair your pork sandwich with a side of tangy pickles and crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
- For a wholesome meal, serve the smoked pork shoulder picnic alongside creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
There you have it, a foolproof way to cook smoked pork shoulder picnic in a slow cooker. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with tender, flavorful meat that will have everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and let the aroma of smoky goodness fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!
For anyone eager to try out their slow-cooked smoked pork shoulder picnic, there are plenty of delicious recipes to explore. They might start with the Classic Pulled Pork Sandwiches, as it's a timeless favorite that's both simple and satisfying. For a fun twist, the BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders offer a bite-sized delight perfect for gatherings. Those looking to add a bit of spice can try Pulled Pork Tacos, which brings a flavorful kick. If they're in the mood for something hearty, Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese is a comforting choice that combines creamy and savory elements. And for a creative, snack-worthy option, Pulled Pork Nachos are always a crowd-pleaser, layering tender pork with crunchy chips and melted cheese. Each of these recipes leverages the smoky richness of the pork shoulder, making them must-tries for anyone wanting to make the most of their slow cooker masterpiece.
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook On Electric Grill