Slow Cooker Apple Cider Pulled Pork

apple cider

🥗Healthier: unsweetened apple juice

💰Cheaper: water + apple extract

Unsweetened apple juice provides a similar flavor with less sugar.

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: pork loin

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Pork loin is leaner, while chicken thighs offer a more affordable protein option.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar is less processed, while white sugar is more economical.

buns

🥗Healthier: whole grain buns

💰Cheaper: white bread

Whole grain buns provide more fiber, while white bread is often cheaper.

Prepare the dry rub by mixing together light brown sugar, kosher salt, ground pepper, smoked paprika, ground mustard, and cinnamon.

Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.

Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and garlic.

Pour the apple cider and apple cider vinegar over the pork.

Add the bundles of fresh thyme on top.

Cover and cook on low for at least 8 hours.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: