How to Make Perfect Pulled Pork in an Instant Pot Without Shredding

Do you love the rich, tender flavor of pulled pork cooked in an Instant Pot but get frustrated with the shredding process? Discover a simpler approach to creating delicious pulled pork that doesn’t require any tedious shredding! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to cook pork shoulder without shredding, including recommended ingredients to enhance flavor and alternative seasonings to BBQ sauce.

Ingredients and Preparation

For pulled pork cooked in an Instant Pot, the prime cut of pork is the pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt. This cut is naturally tougher and fibrous, making it perfect for pressure cooking. Here’s what you need:

Pork shoulder, preferably 5-7 pounds 1 cup water or beef broth (optional) Salt and pepper, to taste Garlic powder (optional) Note: Other thin liquids like apple juice, chicken broth, or beer can be used as well

To prepare, cut the pork shoulder into 3-4 pieces to ensure faster cooking and more even results. These pieces can be seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper, a touch of onion and garlic powder, and seared in a bit of oil on the Instant Pot’s Saute mode with the lid off.

Cooking the Pork Shoulder in an Instant Pot

Once your pork is prepped and seared, you can begin the cooking process in your Instant Pot:

Add water or broth to the bottom of the inner pot (1 cup for a standard 6-qt IP, 1.5 cups for 8-qt model) Place the seasoned pork pieces in the pot Select its pressure cook function and set for 45 minutes (for chewy pork) or 90 minutes (for extra tender pork) depending on your preference Let the pressure release naturally for 15-20 minutes before opening the lid

After the pressure cooking process, the pork should be tender and falling apart. At this point, you can choose to either leave it as is, cut it into bite-sized pieces, or pull it into smaller bits.

Alternative Seasonings and Gravy Ideas

While traditional BBQ sauce is a popular choice for flavor, there are numerous alternatives to enhance your pulled pork. Consider these options:

Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey: A sweet and tangy blend that pairs perfectly with pork. Just mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1/2 cup of honey and pour over the cooked pork. Chipotle Sauce: A smoky and spicy sauce that adds depth to pork. Stir in 1 cup of diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with 1 cup of water for a robust flavor. Gravy: If you prefer a rich, creamy sauce, make a quick gravy by whisking 1/4 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water and pouring it into the Instant Pot. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Conclusion and Additional Tips

By following these easy steps, you can make delicious pulled pork in an Instant Pot without any tedious shredding. Whether you choose to leave the pork as is, cut it into piece, or shred it, the key is to ensure the pork is cooked to perfection. Experiment with different flavors and seasonings to find your favorite combination, and enjoy the rich, moist, and flavorful pulled pork every time!

Additional Tips

Use the right cut of pork: Pork shoulder or pork butt are best for pressure cooking as they retain tenderness even with long cooking times. Prep the meat: Searing the pork shoulder before cooking can enhance its flavor and create a delicious crust. Avoid overcooking: While 90 minutes may yield extra-tender pork, 45 minutes will still result in a perfectly tender and juicy dish.

Images

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