Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Description
This Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue is a true Southern delight, sourced directly from my Southern Living Homestyle Cooking Cookbook. What makes this recipe particularly fantastic is its ease and simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep work, you can set everything into your slow cooker before you leave for the day, and by the time you return, your house will be filled with the mouthwatering aromas of a perfectly cooked meal. This dish is hearty and comforting, with tender, shredded pork drenched in a tangy and flavorful barbecue sauce.
I’ve adapted this recipe slightly, usually halving it and using just pork instead of the combination of meats suggested in the original. However, this recipe works just as well with beef stew meat or pork. My husband absolutely loves it, especially when paired with creamy cole slaw and tangy pickles. The best part? You only need a few basic ingredients to create something that tastes like it took hours to prepare, all thanks to the magic of your slow cooker.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef stew meat (or pork) | 1 1/2 lbs |
| Green bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| White vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Dry mustard | 2 tsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 863.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 42.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 215.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1386.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugar | 25.1 g |
| Protein | 69.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the ingredients: Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. Chop the green bell pepper and onion into small pieces. Open the can of tomato paste and measure out your brown sugar, vinegar, chili powder, salt, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. If you’re using pork, cut it into cubes or leave it whole for easier shredding after cooking.
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Combine in the slow cooker: Add the beef stew meat (or pork), green bell pepper, onion, tomato paste, brown sugar, white vinegar, chili powder, salt, dry mustard, and Worcestershire sauce into a 5-quart electric slow cooker.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on high for 7 hours. Don’t be tempted to open the lid during the cooking process; the slow cooker works best when it’s left undisturbed.
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Shred the pork: Once the cooking time has elapsed, carefully remove the pork (or beef) from the slow cooker. Use a spoon or fork to mash the meat against the side of the slow cooker, breaking it up into tender shreds. The meat should practically fall apart at the touch.
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Mix and serve: Stir everything in the slow cooker to combine the shredded meat with the sauce and vegetables. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite sides like pickles, cole slaw, or even over a bed of rice or in sandwich buns for a hearty meal.
Tips & Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for an extra layer of heat.
- Half the recipe: If you’re cooking for a smaller group, simply halve the ingredients but keep the same cooking time. The flavors will still be just as rich and delicious.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar or adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on your preference for sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together a mix of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors, all balanced perfectly by the slow cooking process. The pork becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the delicious barbecue sauce made with Worcestershire, mustard, and chili powder. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days when you need a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.
Whether you serve it with a side of crispy fries, a light salad, or your favorite slaw, this Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s the type of meal that everyone will rave about, and you’ll love how easy it is to make. Get ready for a flavorful dinner that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekends.
Conclusion
So, next time you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner, this Slow Cooker Pork Barbecue is the answer. With minimal preparation and no constant attention needed, you can let your slow cooker work its magic, and by the time you’re home, dinner will be ready to serve. A meal this delicious doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves just that. Enjoy!
