Some things are just worth waiting for, and the BBQ pulled pork sandwiches you’ll end up with after a multi-hour cooking process following this pulled pork sandwich recipe are evidence of that if anything ever has been. Tangy, sweet, savory and downright delicious, this pulled pork will have you happy you learned to be patient.
But hey, for the impatient folks out there, it’s also good to know that the hands-on work here lasts all of 10 to 15 minutes, so you can toss everything in the slow cooker after lunch, hurry around the house or around town getting all your errands done, and then enjoy a delicious pulled pork sandwich dinner four or five hours later.
Ingredients for Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- Pork tenderloin: Use a 1-pound pork tenderloin.
- Ketchup: Be generous with the ketchup, as it adds flavor and moisture.
- Brown sugar: This recipe asks for precise measurements of 2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons of brown sugar.
- Cider vinegar: Same deal with the cider vinegar, use 2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons.
- Worcestershire sauce: For the Worcestershire sauce, use 1 tablespoon plus 1-1/2 teaspoons.
- Spicy brown mustard: Just 1 tablespoon of spicy brown mustard will do it.
- Pepper: And 1/4 teaspoon of regular black pepper is all you need.
- Rolls or buns: Ideally, these will be split and toasted.
- Coleslaw (optional): The slaw is not required, but it is highly recommended.
Directions
Step 1: Slice the pork and make the sauce
Cut the tenderloin in half and place it in a 3-quart slow cooker. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and pepper, then pour the blend over the pork.
Step 2: Slow-cook, shred and serve
Cover and cook the pork on low for four to five hours or until the meat is very tender. Then remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Return the pork to the slow cooker and heat it through. Serve the pulled pork on toasted rolls or buns, with coleslaw if desired.
Pulled Pork Sandwich Variations
- Add some cola: For a unique take on BBQ pulled pork, add about 6 ounces of cola (Coke, Pepsi or whatever you prefer) to the slow cooker along with the sauces and sugar.
- Try it with chicken: This same recipe will work great with chicken, just check the internal temperature of the meat and know that the cooking process may take longer.
- Swap the Worcestershire for soy: If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce makes a very good stand-in to use in its place.
How to Store Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Let it cool to room temperature, then secure it in an airtight bag or container.
Can you freeze pulled pork?
Yes, pulled pork freezes well for up to four months when properly stored in airtight packaging. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then heat it in a skillet with a bit of oil or in the microwave.
Pulled Pork Sandwich Tips
What should I serve with pulled pork sandwiches?
Of course coleslaw is always a good idea here, as are other BBQ staples like cornbread, broccoli, beans and rice. A crisp green salad also makes a good pairing with pulled pork.
How do I shred pulled pork?
When the meat is cool enough to handle, you can use two forks to shred it. The double-fork method involves pushing the forks together and then pulling them apart at the same time. You can also use one fork to keep the meat steady while you shred it with the other.
What is the safe internal temperature for pork?
Pork needs to be cooked to 145°F internally to be considered food safe. Use an instant-read thermometer to check, if you have any doubts.
