Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite! Our Cider Chai Crock Pot Pulled Pork is the perfect fusion of savory and sweet, promising to tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Imagine tender, juicy pork shoulder infused with aromatic chai spices and the rich sweetness of apple cider, all effortlessly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress! Dive into our article to discover how to create this delectable dish that will leave your guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons chai spice mix
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the pork shoulder from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Generously season the entire pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of chai spice mix, rubbing the spices thoroughly into the meat.
- Slice the onion into thin rings and spread them across the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onion slices in the crock pot.
- Pour the apple cider around the sides of the pork, ensuring it doesn't wash off the spice rub.
- Sprinkle the remaining chai spice mix over the top of the pork.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat, cooking for 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the pork and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large fatty pieces.
- Optional: Strain the cooking liquid and mix a small amount back into the pulled pork for extra moisture and flavor.
- Serve hot on buns, in tacos, or as desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: For the best results, let the pork shoulder sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and retain moisture.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Generously rub salt, pepper, and chai spice mix all over the pork to enhance the flavor profile.
- Layering is Key: Place sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot to create a flavorful base for the pork. This not only adds flavor but also prevents the meat from sticking.
- Cider Placement: When adding the apple cider, pour it around the sides of the pork instead of directly over it to keep the spice rub intact.
- Resting Period: After cooking, allow the pork to rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in even more tender meat.
- Shredding Technique: Use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large fatty pieces. For added flavor, consider mixing some of the strained cooking liquid back into the pulled pork.
- Serving Suggestions: This pulled pork is incredibly versatile! Serve it on buns, in tacos, or even over rice for a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
