How to Make Pulled Pork Without Using a Slow Cooker or Smoker

For many home cooks, pulled pork is a staple dish that requires slow-cooking or the use of a smoker. However, if you're looking for a quicker and more convenient method, there's still plenty of hope! In this guide, we explore alternative methods that can yield delicious results without the need for a slow cooker or smoker.

Traditional vs. Alternative Methods

When it comes to making pulled pork, the most traditional method involves either a smoker or a slow cooker. Both methods require a significant amount of time, often ranging from several hours to an entire day. While these methods can produce the perfect texture and flavor, they may not be ideal for busy household cooks or those who just can't wait. In this article, we offer three alternative methods that can help you achieve similar results in less time.

Method 1: Using a Pressure Cooker (e.g., Instant Pot)

One of the quickest and most efficient ways to prepare pulled pork is by using a pressure cooker. This method can reduce cooking time from hours to just a couple of minutes. Here's a simple recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

4 lb pork shoulder or butt 2 tablespoons oil (optional, for searing) 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 12 ounces coke (not diet) BBQ sauce for coating (optional)

Instructions:

Trim the pork of excess fat and cut it into 4 pieces. Combine the spices in a small bowl and rub them all over the pork. You can do this the night before. For searing (optional): Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a Dutch oven pot over medium-high heat. Add the meat and sear for a few seconds on all sides. Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Pour coke around the pork in the Dutch oven pot. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 3 hours. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 1-2 hours until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Slow Cooker Method: Place the pork in a slow cooker and pour coke around it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork. Instant Pot Method: Place the pork in the Instant Pot and pour coke around it. Cook on Manual/High pressure for 70 minutes. Allow the pot to naturally release pressure for about 15 minutes more. Remove the lid and shred the meat. Toss in BBQ sauce if desired.

Method 2: Dutch Oven in the Oven

If you don't have access to a pressure cooker, you can still achieve great results by using a Dutch oven in your oven. This method involves slow roasting the pork butt in a lidded roasting pan. Here's how:

Ingredients:

4 lb pork shoulder or butt Airtight lidded roasting pan Spices as per your preference Water (a small amount to keep the pork moist)

Instructions:

Place the pork butt in a lidded roasting pan. Apply the appropriate spices and add a small amount of water to keep the meat moist. Place the pan in the oven at 250 degrees F and leave it there for 12 hours. This may seem like a long time, but the slow cooking process ensures that the pork is tender and falls apart easily. After 12 hours, remove the pork from the oven and shred it with two forks. Season to taste and enjoy!

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Whether you opt for the pressure cooker method, the Dutch oven in the oven technique, or any other quick method, the key is to use your time wisely and ensure that the pork is tender and flavorful. Enjoy your homemade pulled pork!