Juicy, tender and so flavorful, this Everyday Shredded Pork (Instant Pot and Slow Cooker) is the perfect addition to any recipe.

Everyday Shredded Pork (Instant Pot and Slow Cooker)

Pork-tastic! That’s what Matt and I refer to weeks in which we eat pork almost every day. In our household, this actually happens pretty often.

First of all, my whole family loves pork. When I make it, it’s pretty much guaranteed my kids’ plates will be clean and they’ll be asking for more.

Secondly, it is very economical. We like to buy pork shoulders or pork butts from Sam’s Club. They are a great price and it is so much meat! I usually divide them in half and freeze one. Just one half can feed all of us for 2-3 days.

Then there’s the fact that pork is so versatile. We can add it to so many dishes and it is delicious every time! From pernil (a Puerto Rican dish I am working on perfecting), to burritos, pork in salsa verde, pork green chile, chile colorado, tacos, enchiladas. . . I could go on, the possibilities are endless.

One of my favorite and the easiest ways to cook pork is to shred it. I either stick it in my slow cooker or my Instant Pot and I get a juicy, tender, and flavorful result every single time. I can then use it in many of the dishes listed above or even serve it on a quick salad for a pretty effortless meal.

Also, if you use the right chicken broth, then it’s so easy to make this pork Whole30 compliant.

Now let’s get to the steps.

If you are a fan of shredded meat, then check out this equally as easy recipe for shredded beef.

How to Make Everyday Shredded Pork

(Instant Pot and Slow Cooker)

First, you will need a 4-6 pound pork butt or pork shoulder. Cut the meat into 4-5 equal pieces.

Interested in learning more about these cuts of meat? Click here for a very informative article about the two.

Next, gather the rest of your ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cup of chicken broth (make sure to use a compliant broth if doing Whole30)
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 onion

In my opinion cooking pork in the slow cooker yields the best results. The meat comes out fall-apart tender and retains all of its juices. However, for a fast alternative, the Instant Pot works great too. The shredded pork is also very tender but I don’t think it comes out quite as juicy as when made in the slow cooker.

So let’s begin with the slow cooker method.

Slow Cooker Directions

Place the pork in the pot. Add the rest of the ingredients over the meat. You can roughly chop the onion and garlic to place on top, but it is not necessary.

Next, place the lid on the pot and set the timer for 6-8 hours. In my experience, the slower the meat cooks in the slow cooker, the more tender the result.

When the time is up, use tongs to remove the meat from the pot and let it cool slightly. Use two forks or your hands to shred all of the meat and remove any excess fat.

As the broth cools you’ll notice a layer of clear fat will rise to the top. Use a large spoon to skim off the fat from the top of the cooking liquid. Then use a mesh strainer to strain the broth. Mix 1 cup of the cooking liquid into the shredded pork.

Instant Pot Directions

Place the pork in the bottom of the pot. Add the rest of the ingredients over the meat. You can roughly chop the onion and garlic to place on top, but it is not necessary.

Next, place the lid on the pot and move the valve to sealing. Set the time for 1 1/2 hours.

When the time is up carefully quick release the remaining pressure. You may want to use a kitchen towel to lightly cover the vent in case there’s any excess moisture that comes out.

Using tongs, remove the pieces of pork from the pot and let them cool slightly. Use two forks or your hands to shred all of the meat and remove any excess fat.

As the broth cools you’ll notice a layer of clear fat will rise to the top. Use a large spoon to skim off the fat from the top of the cooking liquid. After that, use a mesh strainer to strain the broth. Mix 1-2 cups of the cooking liquid into the shredded pork.

Storing Everyday Shredded Pork

Place the meat in an air-tight container. Add any of the remaining cooking liquid to the pork.  When storing shredded pork,  it will keep better if it is covered in the broth. The meat will keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

Serve

Use this Everyday Shredded Pork in whatever dish calls for shredded pork or pulled pork. I have a great recipe using this pork coming to the blog this week, and I will be sure to share many more along the way.

I hope you enjoy!

Please leave me a comment below if you make this or tag me on Instagram @everydaylatina.

 

 

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