I’m not going to tell you how to make tacos. That would insult your intelligence and I’m not here to do that. The picture above is simply an example of the many delicious ways to enjoy pulled pork. Here are a few other ideas… Chili, stir-fry, pasta sauce, sloppy joe’s, enchiladas, burritos, barbecue sandwich, and, of course, on its own over rice. I’m sure I could think of more, but it’s late and I’m watching The Sing-Off. Rock Center with Brian Williams is coming up next – that could be much more distracting. I may have a bit of a crush on Mr. Williams… You probably didn’t need to know that.
Ingredients
3-4lb pork shoulder or Boston butt
salt and pepper
pork spice rub mix
1 large onion
2 TB – 1/4 cup liquid smoke
32oz box of chicken stock or water
Begin by trimming as much fat as you feel you need to, from a 3-4lb pork shoulder or Boston butt. Rub the entire thing with kosher salt, pepper, and your favorite pork spice mix. I am proud to say I used Paula Deen’s Butt Massage given to me by my brother and sister-in-law after they visited her restaurant. You can easily find something similar at your local grocery store but I can’t promise it will have such a great name.
Heat 1 TB olive oil in a large skillet. On med-high heat, brown the pork on all sides.
You may skip the browning and go directly to the slow-cooker if you’d rather. I like the extra depth of flavor the browning provides.
While the pork is browning, cut up the onion and place it it the crock pot. You could also add some cloves of garlic if you like.
Transfer the pork to the slow cooker. Add the liquid smoke and enough chicken stock or water to cover the bottom half of the pork shoulder. If you want to go crazy, use beer or root beer for part of the liquid. Cover and cook on low for 6 – 8 hours, until the pork pulls apart easily.
Remove the pork from the liquid and place on a large cutting board or in a large pan. Pull the pork apart with 2 forks. Proceed with reckless abandon on to your favorite pulled pork dish.