Lighter Pulled Pork
Indulge in the flavors of classic pulled pork without the guilt with this "Lighter Pulled Pork" recipe, a healthier twist on the barbecue favorite. Made with lean pork tenderloin, this dish is seasoned with a smoky, savory spice rub featuring smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic for a bold and vibrant taste. Slow-cooked to perfection with a tangy sauce of apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, honey, and Worcestershire, the pork becomes irresistibly tender and easy to shred. With just 20 minutes of prep and the magic of a slow cooker, this recipe is both effortless and nutrient-conscious. Serve it on whole-grain buns, in lettuce wraps, or over a hearty salad for a flavorful meal that fits any occasion. Perfect for those seeking a lighter, wholesome barbecue option without compromising taste!
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1 cup Chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
Trim any visible fat off the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin until fully coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until it is golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Transfer the seared pork to a slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Pour the liquid mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Once the pork is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and shred it using two forks.
Optional: Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. Pour about 1-2 cups of the cooking liquid over the shredded pork to keep it moist and flavorful.
Serve the shredded pork on whole-grain buns, in tacos, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1515 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.8 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 617 mg | 206% | |
| Sodium | 5818 mg | 253% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 38.3 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.8 g | ||
| Protein | 227.9 g | 456% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.8 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 153 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 15.6 mg | 87% | |
| Potassium | 4986 mg | 106% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
