When it comes to pulled pork, Guy Fieri knows his stuff, and I’m excited to share why his recipe is one of the best I’ve ever made!
Using a blend of spices like paprika, chili powder, and cumin gives the pork a bold flavor that sets it apart.
A tip for achieving that perfect tenderness is to let the pork shoulder rest at room temperature before cooking.
Roasting in the oven with a vinegar-based mop sauce keeps the meat juicy and adds a tangy kick.
How to Make Guy Fieri Pulled Pork Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 lbs Pork Shoulder
- 2 tbsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 cups BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 Onion (sliced)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
Let the pork shoulder rest at room temperature for about 1 1/2 hours.
This helps to ensure even cooking.
Step 2:
Mix all the dry spices together in a bowl: black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar.
Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder until it’s completely covered.
Step 3:
Place the seasoned pork in a braising pan.
Add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sliced onions to the pan.
Make sure everything is well combined around the meat.
Step 4:
Cover the braising pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
Braise in the oven for 3 hours until the pork is fork-tender.
Check for doneness by pulling at the meat with a fork.
Step 5:
Remove the meat from the oven.
Use two forks to shred the pork into fine pieces.
Add some of the braising liquid back into the meat for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Let it Rest
Before starting any cooking, ensure the pork shoulder rests outside the fridge to come to room temperature, which promotes even cooking.
Spice it Up
If you like more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne to the spice mix for a spicier flavor.
Use a Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer ensures the pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 195 degrees Fahrenheit for perfect tenderness.
Keep Extra Sauce Handy
Have some extra BBQ sauce on hand if you or your guests like a saucier pulled pork.
Adding some while serving can enhance the flavor.
Don’t Rush the Shredding
Allow the pork to cool slightly before shredding, which makes it easier to handle and pull apart.
What to Serve with Guy Fieri Pulled Pork Recipe
When it comes to serving pulled pork, choosing the right sides can elevate your meal to another dimension.
You’ll want a mix of traditional and unique options to capture everyone’s attention.
Coleslaw
You can’t go wrong with coleslaw.
The crisp, crunchy texture of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the juicy pulled pork, providing a refreshing contrast.
Try making it with a tangy vinegar-based dressing for an extra kick that will add much zest to your plate.
Skillet Cornbread
Nothing complements pulled pork better than a good old piece of cornbread.
Its slightly sweet, buttery flavor goes hand in hand with the savory richness of the pork.
Bake it in a cast iron skillet for a classic Southern touch that can’t be beaten!
Broccoli Salad
For an unexpected twist, why not serve a broccoli salad?
This dish combines fresh broccoli, cranberries, nuts, and bacon in a creamy dressing, offering a delightful burst of flavor.
The mixture of textures here adds a fun element to your meal.
Grilled Peaches
Here’s a side dish you might not have thought of—grilled peaches.
Their natural sweetness intensifies when grilled, and they bring a fruity complement to the smoky pulled pork.
A sprinkle of cinnamon or thyme before grilling can add extra flavor complexity.
Pimento Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeños
For those who like a bit of spice, consider pimento cheese-stuffed jalapeños.
These delightful bites introduce a creamy, spicy element that pairs beautifully with the savory pork.
They’re easy to make and will definitely add a spicy surprise to your menu!
Variations and Substitutions
Spice Mix Alternatives
If you want to try different flavors, substitute the paprika with smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
These options will add a smoky twist to your pulled pork.
You could also try adding coriander or fennel seeds for a unique flavor profile.
Meat Options
Though pork is traditional, you can swap it for beef or turkey to change things up.
Each meat will offer its distinct taste and texture to the recipe.
Adjust the cooking time as needed to make sure it’s tender.
Cooking Methods
You don’t have to stick to the oven; using a slow cooker or instant pot can be convenient.
These methods are great for busy days when you want to set it and forget it.
Adjust the liquid quantities when changing cooking methods to maintain moisture.
Sauce Variations
Experiment by replacing the BBQ sauce with different styles, such as a spicy sriracha or a tangy mustard-based sauce.
You can also blend in some honey or maple syrup for a sweeter finish.
Try these sauce variations to see what matches your taste.
How to Store Leftover Pulled Pork
Storing leftover pulled pork is easy if you know a few simple tricks.
Start by using clean utensils whenever you handle the meat, to maintain its freshness.
Place the pulled pork in shallow, airtight containers to keep it as fresh as possible.
Cool Before Storing
Before you store, let the pulled pork cool to room temperature.
Cooling prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the meat soggy.
Make sure it doesn’t sit out for more than two hours to keep it safe.
Fridge Storage
Refrigerate your pulled pork promptly after it cools down.
You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days without losing its delicious taste.
Wrap it tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or use a resealable bag to avoid air exposure.
Freezer Tips
If you’re not planning to eat it soon, you can freeze it!
Place the pulled pork in a freezer-safe container and leave a little room for expansion.
Frozen pulled pork can be good for up to three months if wrapped and stored well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect Cooking Temperature
It’s tempting to crank up the heat to speed things along, but pulled pork needs patience.
A low, slow approach at around 225°F (107°C) gives the best results.
This ensures flavorful, tender meat rather than something tough and dry.
Skipping Rest Time
Don’t skip the resting time once it’s cooked!
Allow the pork shoulder to rest for about an hour before pulling.
This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat juicier and easier to work with.
Not Properly Seasoning
Seasoning is key.
You’ll want a balanced mix of salt, sugar, and spices to create a flavorful crust.
Rub the seasoning generously over the pork before cooking for the best flavor infusion.
Guy Fieri Pulled Pork Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 lbs Pork Shoulder
- 2 tbsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 cups BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 Onion sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the pork shoulder rest at room temperature for about 1 1/2 hours.
- This helps to ensure even cooking.
- Mix all the dry spices together in a bowl: black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar.
- Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder until it’s completely covered.
- Place the seasoned pork in a braising pan.
- Add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and sliced onions to the pan.
- Make sure everything is well combined around the meat.
- Cover the braising pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Braise in the oven for 3 hours until the pork is fork-tender.
- Check for doneness by pulling at the meat with a fork.
- Remove the meat from the oven.
- Use two forks to shred the pork into fine pieces.
- Add some of the braising liquid back into the meat for extra flavor.