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Savory Dr Pepper Pulled Pork

Savory Dr Pepper Pulled Pork: Irresistibly Sweet and Smoky!

Savory Dr Pepper Pulled Pork is a tender, smoky dish perfect for family gatherings. Transform pork shoulder with simple ingredients into a delightful meal!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork
  • 4 pounds Pork Shoulder The key protein for this savory Dr Pepper pulled pork.
For the Marinade
  • 1 can Dr Pepper Adds sweet caramel notes; substitute with other colas or root beer if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Elevates umami flavors; gluten-free substitutes include tamari or coconut aminos.
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Supplies essential sweetness; can reduce or swap with low-carb sweeteners.
  • 1/4 cup Honey Adds natural sweetness; adjust or omit if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup Forms the base for the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons Vinegar Brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses savory depth; adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Contributes mild smoky flavor; consider smoked paprika for extra kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Essential seasoning.
Additional Variations
  • 1 shot Bourbon Can deepen the flavor of the glaze.
  • Extra Spices Experiment with spices like cumin or chili powder.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prep the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and rub with Worcestershire sauce and spices. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker, pour Dr Pepper over it, cover, and set on low for 8 hours.
  3. Cook the Pork: For a Dutch oven, preheat to 300°F. Roast covered for 3-4 hours until easily shreds with a fork.
  4. Make the Glaze: Combine ketchup and brown sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thick.
  5. Shred the Meat: Remove cooked pork, let cool, and shred with forks.
  6. Combine with the Glaze: Mix shredded pork and glaze in a large bowl until coated.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm in sandwiches, tacos, or over rice. Pair with slaw or pickles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 24gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Choose quality meat, slow cook on low, let it rest before shredding, and save cooking juices for reheating.

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