Get ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a flavor explosion that'll have everyone begging for seconds! This Instant Pot Zesty BBQ Pulled Pork is not just a meal - it's a culinary adventure that combines tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat with a tangy, sweet BBQ sauce that'll make your taste buds dance. Whether you're hosting a game day party, family gathering, or just craving some seriously delicious comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lb pork shoulder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large 3-4 inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Season the pork pieces generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, making sure to coat all sides of the meat.
- Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot, creating a liquid base to prevent burning and help create steam.
- Place seasoned pork chunks into the Instant Pot, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select the Meat/Stew function or Manual High Pressure for 60 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove pork from Instant Pot and shred meat using two forks, discarding any large fat pieces.
- In a separate bowl, mix BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to create a zesty sauce.
- Return shredded pork to Instant Pot, pour sauce over meat, and gently mix to coat thoroughly.
- Let meat sit in sauce for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors before serving on buns or as desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its marbling and ability to become tender when slow-cooked.
- Trim, But Don't Remove All Fat: Leave a thin layer of fat for extra flavor and moisture, but remove any excessive large chunks.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with your seasonings - make sure every piece of meat is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Natural Pressure Release Matters: The 15-minute natural release helps the meat continue cooking and become more tender.
- Sauce Strategy: Mix your BBQ sauce separately to control consistency and taste, and add it after shredding for the best flavor absorption.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This recipe freezes beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for future meals.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve on soft buns, over rice, in tacos, or as a topping for loaded nachos for maximum versatility!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
