Name: Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ teaspoons garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp kosher salt; 2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 3 lb pork shoulder, cut into 6–8 equal pieces; 1 tbsp canola oil; ½ medium yellow onion; 1 ½ cup root beer; 3 tbsp distilled white vinegar; ½ cup barbecue sauce; ½ medium green cabbage; ½ cup red onion; 1 Carrot; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper; sandwich roll; barbecue sauce

Transform your meal with this savory and sweet root beer pulled pork recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. The succulent, tender pork combined with the unique flavors of root beer and barbecue sauce creates a mouth-watering sandwich that is sure to become a favorite.

Photos of Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up pork shoulder and smoked paprika. Pork shoulder is typically found in the meat section, and smoked paprika adds a distinctive flavor that standard paprika cannot replace. Root beer and distilled white vinegar are also crucial to achieve that signature taste.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

Garlic powder: Adds a robust, savory flavor to the pork.

Onion powder: Enhances the depth of flavor with a hint of sweetness.

Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a slight heat and complexity.

Ground coriander: Provides a subtle, citrusy flavor.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Pork shoulder: The main protein, ideal for slow cooking.

Canola oil: Used for browning the pork.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the cooking liquid.

Root beer: The key ingredient for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Distilled white vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.

Barbecue sauce: Enhances the smoky, savory notes.

Green cabbage: Adds crunch to the slaw.

Red onion: Adds color and bite to the slaw.

Carrot: Adds sweetness and texture to the slaw.

Apple cider vinegar: Enhances the slaw with a tangy flavor.

Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess to the slaw.

Sandwich roll: The base for serving the pulled pork.

Barbecue sauce: Used for extra flavor on the sandwich.

One reader, Eleni Pagan says:

This instant pot root beer pulled pork recipe is a game-changer! The pork is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the pickled onion slaw adds the perfect crunch. It's an easy, delicious meal that impresses every time. Highly recommend!

Eleni Pagan

Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

How to brown meat: Heat oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting and brown the pork pieces on all sides for 2 to 3 minutes per side. How to sauté onions: Cook the onions in the Instant Pot until they are soft and translucent, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. How to use an Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting for browning and cooking onions, then switch to normal pressure for cooking the pork. Seal the pressure valve and let it naturally release before manually opening. How to shred pork: Use two forks to pull apart the cooked pork into small pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat or sinew. How to make pickled onion slaw: Combine cabbage, pickled onions, carrot, vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a bowl and toss well to coat. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. How to reduce braising liquid: Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and cook the braising liquid until it reduces by half, which takes about 10 to 12 minutes.

How To Make Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

We can’t get enough of this easy root beer pulled pork recipe. Let the Instant Pot do all the work, leaving you with the juiciest barbecue pork. Serve on buttery brioche buns or as sliders and top off with a simple pickled onion slaw.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 10 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2 ½teaspoons garlic powder
2tsponion powder
1tbspkosher salt
2tspblack pepper
1tspground coriander
1tspsmoked paprika
3lbpork shoulder, cut into 6–8 equal pieces
1tbspcanola oil
½mediumyellow onionminced
1 ½cuproot beer
3tbspdistilled white vinegar
½ cupbarbecue sauce
½mediumgreen cabbageshredded
½cup red onionpickled
1carrotshredded
1tbspapple cider vinegar
2tbspmayonnaise
1tspkosher salt
¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
sandwich roll
barbecue sauce

Instructions

To make the pulled pork:

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, coriander, and paprika.
Add the pork to a large bowl and sprinkle with the spice mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
Turn an Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the canola oil and heat on medium heat. Working in batches, add the pork to the pot in batches and brown all over, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board.
Add the onion to the pot and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the root beer, vinegar, and barbecue sauce to the pot and stir to combine.
Return the pork to the pot, nestling the pieces in together so they fit in a single layer and are sitting evenly in the cooking liquid. Put on the lid and seal the pressure valve.
Cook on normal pressure for 60 minutes. Once the timer has stopped, let the valve naturally release for 15 minutes before manually opening the valve.

To make the pickled onion slaw:

In a medium bowl, combine the cabbage, pickled onions, carrot, vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Using tongs, transfer the pork from the Instant Pot to a large bowl. Turn Instant Pot to the sauté setting and reduce the braising liquid by half, 10 to 12 minutes.
Meanwhile, use 2 forks to shred the pork into small pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat or sinew.
Starting with ½ cup, gradually add the reduced braising liquid back to the pork until juicy and well-coated.
To serve, spread barbecue sauce on both sides of each roll. Place a generous scoop of pork on each bottom bun and top with a small scoop of pickled onion slaw. Top with the top bun and serve.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1275.31kcal
Fat: 49.07g
Saturated Fat: 15.14g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.64g
Carbohydrates: 164.01g
Fiber: 7.07g
Sugar: 128.65g
Protein: 44.19g
Cholesterol: 162.90mg
Sodium: 3161.59mg
Calcium: 204.49mg
Potassium: 1719.82mg
Iron: 5.36mg
Vitamin A: 131.21µg
Vitamin C: 16.03mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

When browning the pork in the instant pot, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Browning in batches ensures that each piece gets a nice sear, which adds depth of flavor to the final dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prepare the spice mix ahead: Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, coriander, and paprika in advance and store in an airtight container.

Use pre-shredded cabbage: Save time by buying pre-shredded green cabbage and carrot for the slaw.

Instant pot multitasking: While the pork is cooking, prepare the pickled onion slaw to streamline the process.

Skip browning: If in a rush, skip browning the pork pieces. It will still be flavorful after pressure cooking.

Use store-bought barbecue sauce: Opt for a good-quality, store-bought barbecue sauce to save preparation time.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe

garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor profile and texture, making it a suitable replacement.
onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion provides a similar onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different color.
ground coriander - Substitute with cumin: Cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika will provide the color and a mild flavor, though it lacks the smokiness.
pork shoulder - Substitute with pork butt: Pork butt has a similar fat content and texture, making it ideal for slow cooking.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion has a similar flavor and texture, making it a suitable replacement.
root beer - Substitute with cola: Cola provides a similar sweetness and acidity, though with a slightly different flavor profile.
distilled white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a similar acidity with a slightly fruitier flavor.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with ketchup mixed with liquid smoke: This combination mimics the tangy and smoky flavor of barbecue sauce.
green cabbage - Substitute with savoy cabbage: Savoy cabbage has a similar texture and can be used in the same way.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a similar flavor with a slightly milder taste.
carrot - Substitute with parsnip: Parsnip has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a good alternative.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used in the same quantity.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture with a tangy flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used in a slightly smaller quantity due to its finer grains.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with ground white pepper: Ground white pepper offers a similar heat and flavor.
sandwich roll - Substitute with burger bun: Burger buns have a similar texture and can hold the pulled pork well.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with honey mustard sauce: Honey mustard sauce provides a tangy and sweet flavor that complements the pork.

Best Ways to Present Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the pulled pork in a delicate, refined portion, ensuring each plate has a perfectly balanced amount of pork and pickled onion slaw.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley to add a touch of color and elegance.
Plate composition: Arrange the sandwich roll on a pristine white plate, slightly off-center, to create a visually appealing composition.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle a thin line of barbecue sauce artistically around the plate, adding both flavor and visual interest.
Texture contrast: Add a small side of crispy potato chips or a delicate microgreen salad to provide a contrast in texture.
Height and layers: Stack the pulled pork high on the sandwich roll, ensuring it looks generous and inviting, with the pickled onion slaw neatly layered on top.
Clean edges: Wipe the edges of the plate clean to ensure a professional and polished presentation.
Color balance: Ensure the green cabbage and carrot in the slaw are vibrant and fresh, adding a pop of color to the dish.
Temperature control: Serve the pulled pork hot, with the slaw chilled, to create a delightful contrast in temperature.
Final touch: Add a light sprinkle of smoked paprika over the top for a hint of spice and a touch of color.

Essential Tools for Making Root Beer Pulled Pork in an Instant Pot

Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker used for browning, pressure cooking, and reducing the braising liquid.
Small bowl: Used to combine the spice mixture for seasoning the pork.
Large bowl: Used to toss the pork with the spice mixture and later to shred the cooked pork.
Cutting board: A surface for cutting the pork shoulder into pieces and for shredding the cooked pork.
Tongs: Used to transfer the pork from the Instant Pot to the large bowl.
Medium bowl: Used to combine the ingredients for the pickled onion slaw.
Forks: Used to shred the cooked pork into small pieces.
Knife: Used to cut the pork shoulder, onion, cabbage, and carrot.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the spices, salt, pepper, vinegar, and mayonnaise.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the root beer, barbecue sauce, and other liquid ingredients.
Spatula: Used to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot and to stir ingredients.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the pickled onion slaw until ready to serve.
Sandwich rolls: Used as the base for serving the pulled pork and slaw.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Root Beer Pulled Pork

Once the pulled pork has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to include any remaining cooking liquid, as this will help keep the meat moist during storage.
If you plan to consume the pulled pork within 3-4 days, store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days when properly refrigerated.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. To freeze, divide the meat and cooking liquid into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers. This will allow you to thaw only what you need for future meals.
When freezing, remove as much air as possible from the bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
To thaw frozen pulled pork, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. You can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting, but be sure to reheat it immediately after thawing.
To reheat refrigerated or thawed pulled pork, place it in a microwave-safe dish or in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the meat is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If the pulled pork seems dry after reheating, add a splash of root beer, barbecue sauce, or chicken broth to help moisten the meat and enhance its flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Pulled Pork

Reheat the pulled pork in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of root beer or barbecue sauce to help moisten the meat and prevent it from drying out.
Place the leftover pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Add a small amount of root beer or barbecue sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pulled pork in an oven-safe dish and add a small amount of root beer or barbecue sauce to keep the meat moist. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For a crispy exterior, reheat the pulled pork under the broiler. Place the meat on a baking sheet and brush with a small amount of barbecue sauce. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to caramelize and crisp up. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Transform your leftover pulled pork into a new dish by using it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Simply reheat the meat in a skillet or microwave, and serve with your favorite toppings and tortillas.

Interesting Fact About Root Beer Pulled Pork

A unique aspect of this root beer pulled pork recipe is the use of root beer as a braising liquid. The root beer not only tenderizes the pork but also adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, making the pulled pork exceptionally delicious.

Is Making Root Beer Pulled Pork in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?

This instant pot root beer pulled pork recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, pork shoulder, is relatively inexpensive, and the other ingredients like root beer, barbecue sauce, and cabbage are affordable and often already in the pantry. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Considering the flavor and portion size, this recipe offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Pulled Pork Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot root beer pulled pork recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that may not be considered entirely healthy:

The recipe uses a significant amount of root beer, which is high in sugar and calories.
Barbecue sauce often contains added sugars and preservatives.
Pork shoulder is a fatty cut of meat, which can contribute to higher saturated fat intake.
The recipe does not include a significant amount of vegetables, apart from the slaw.

However, the recipe also includes some positive elements:

The use of various spices and seasonings adds flavor without relying heavily on salt.
The pickled onion slaw provides some additional vegetables and a tangy, fresh contrast to the rich pork.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the root beer with a low-sugar or sugar-free alternative, such as diet root beer or a mixture of beef broth and natural root beer extract.
Opt for a low-sugar or homemade barbecue sauce to reduce added sugars and preservatives.
Trim any visible fat from the pork shoulder before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the slaw, or serve the pulled pork with additional vegetable sides, such as roasted or grilled vegetables.
Use whole grain rolls or lettuce wraps instead of traditional sandwich rolls to increase fiber intake.
Limit the amount of barbecue sauce used when serving, or offer it on the side for people to add as desired.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of this instant pot root beer pulled pork recipe while making it a bit more balanced and nutritious.

Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot Pulled Pork Recipe

This recipe for instant pot root beer pulled pork is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. The spice rub adds depth, while the root beer and barbecue sauce create a unique, caramelized richness. The pickled onion slaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the tender, juicy pork. Using the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making it convenient without sacrificing taste. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet Potato Fries: Imagine the crispy, golden edges of sweet potatoes paired with the succulent, juicy pulled pork. The natural sweetness of the fries complements the smoky, savory notes of the barbecue sauce perfectly. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of smoked paprika elevate this side to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled Corn on the Cob: Picture the charred, buttery kernels of corn that burst with flavor in every bite. The smoky aroma from the grill enhances the overall experience, making it a delightful companion to the root beer pulled pork. A hint of lime and a sprinkle of chili powder add a zesty twist that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Coleslaw: Coleslaw: Envision a creamy, tangy coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. The crisp cabbage and carrots are tossed in a zesty dressing that balances the richness of the pork. This classic side dish is a must-have for any barbecue feast, providing a perfect contrast in texture and flavor.

Baked Beans: Baked Beans: Imagine a hearty bowl of baked beans simmered to perfection with a touch of brown sugar and molasses. The sweet and savory flavors meld together, creating a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the pulled pork. A hint of smoked bacon adds an extra layer of depth, making this dish irresistible.

Macaroni and Cheese: Macaroni and Cheese: Picture a creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese that oozes with gooey goodness. The rich, velvety sauce clings to every bite of pasta, providing a luxurious contrast to the tender, smoky pork. A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making this side dish a crowd-pleaser.

Similar Recipes to Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken: Dive into a tender, juicy chicken dish that's slow-cooked to perfection with a tangy barbecue sauce. Serve it on a sandwich roll with a side of coleslaw for a delightful meal.

Honey Mustard Pulled Pork: Experience the sweet and savory flavors of honey and mustard melded into succulent pulled pork. Perfect for sandwiches or served over a bed of rice.

Spicy Chipotle Pulled Beef: Turn up the heat with this spicy and smoky chipotle pulled beef. Ideal for tacos, burritos, or simply piled high on a bun.

Apple Cider Pulled Pork: Infuse your pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or a crisp apple slaw.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Root Beer Pulled Pork

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your gathering with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove their stems. Create a savory filling using cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Add a touch of Parmesan cheese for a rich, nutty flavor. Once stuffed, bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm for an irresistible bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Delight your guests with a classic bruschetta that bursts with fresh flavors. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, brushed lightly with olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a hint of sweetness and a touch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for any occasion, offering a refreshing and savory start to your meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, gooey center of rich chocolate that flows out like molten lava when you cut into it. This decadent dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Lemon Meringue Pie: A buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The bright citrus flavor of the lemon curd balances the sweetness of the meringue, making each bite a harmonious blend of tart and sweet. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender into the crust for a subtle floral note.

Why trust this Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe:

This instant pot root beer pulled pork recipe is a must-try for any home cook. The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika ensures a flavorful experience. Using root beer adds a unique sweetness, while the barbecue sauce ties everything together. The pickled onion slaw provides a refreshing crunch, making each bite unforgettable. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation.

Excited to try this Instant Pot Root Beer Pulled Pork Recipe? Share your experience and discuss tips with fellow home cooks in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make the pulled pork in the Instant Pot?

It takes about 60 minutes to cook the pork in the Instant Pot, plus an additional 15 minutes for natural pressure release. Don't forget to account for the time needed to brown the pork and reduce the braising liquid, so plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours total.

Can I use a different type of soda instead of root beer?

Sure, you can experiment with other sodas like cola or Dr. Pepper. Each will give the pork a slightly different flavor, but root beer is my favorite for its unique sweetness and depth.

What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

You can use your favorite barbecue sauce, whether it's store-bought or homemade. I like a smoky, slightly sweet barbecue sauce, but feel free to use whatever you prefer.

Can I make the pickled onion slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the slaw a few hours ahead and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together nicely.

What can I serve with the root beer pulled pork sandwiches?

These sandwiches go great with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans. You can also serve them with a simple green salad or some crispy fries.