Southwestern Pulled Pork
Get ready to transform dinnertime with this mouthwatering Southwestern Pulled Pork recipe! Perfectly seasoned with an aromatic blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, this tender pork shoulder is slow-cooked to juicy perfection. A splash of lime juice and a touch of honey add a zesty, subtly sweet finish, while optional cayenne pepper delivers a customizable kick of heat. Whether served in tacos, piled onto sandwiches, or over a bed of rice, this versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep time and effortless slow-cooking, it’s the ideal recipe for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings. Make this flavorful Southwestern-inspired pulled pork your go-to for bold, savory comfort food!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 0.5 teaspoon optional: cayenne pepper (for added heat)
Instructions
Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder, but leave some for flavor. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the pork to a slow cooker.
Pour chicken broth, lime juice, and honey into the slow cooker with the pork. Cover and set to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5-6 hours.
Once the pork is fork-tender, transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker, then return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Toss the pork in the juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or spices if needed.
Serve warm in tacos, on sandwiches, or over rice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4987 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 393.1 g | 504% | |
| Saturated Fat | 131.6 g | 658% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1270 mg | 423% | |
| Sodium | 3163 mg | 138% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42.7 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.1 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.2 g | ||
| Protein | 333.7 g | 667% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 304 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 22.3 mg | 124% | |
| Potassium | 5520 mg | 117% | |
*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.
