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Savory Bourbon BBQ Pulled Pork

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A sticky, tender pulled pork recipe infused with smoky bourbon and sweet molasses, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy dinners. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients using a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt), well-marbled
  • 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (sweet and tangy style recommended)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (optional, for searing)
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Trim the pork shoulder, removing excess fat but leaving some for flavor. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Rub the pork all over with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Optional: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water or broth.
  5. Slow Cooker Method: Place the seared pork in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until pork is fork-tender.
  6. Instant Pot Method: Add pork and sauce to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes before opening.
  7. Transfer the pork to a platter or bowl and shred using two forks or tongs, discarding large chunks of fat.
  8. Return shredded pork to the slow cooker or pot and stir into the sauce. Cook on low or warm for 20-30 minutes to meld flavors and thicken sauce.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
  10. Optional: If sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into sauce. Cook on high for 5 minutes until thickened.

Notes

Searing the pork before slow cooking adds depth and caramelization. Use a gluten-free BBQ sauce for gluten-free diet. Substitute bourbon with apple juice or extra broth for alcohol-free version. Let natural pressure release fully in Instant Pot to avoid tough meat. Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen up to 3 months. Reheat gently with splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork, bourbon BBQ, slow cooker pulled pork, Instant Pot pulled pork, BBQ recipe, tender pork, sticky pork, family dinner, game day recipe

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/savory-bourbon-bbq-pulled-pork-recipe-easy-sticky-tender-perfection/