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.

Mix the brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.

Using pieces of kitchen twine, truss the pork along its length, leaving about 2” between each section. Spread the rub over the pork evenly, coating all sides.

Spread the onions and garlic over the bottom of the slow cooker, then nestle the pork on top with the fat cap facing up. Pour the cider and vinegar into the slow cooker, then place the thyme on top.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork easily pulls using the tines of a fork.

Remove the pork from the slow cooker using tongs, then place on a cutting board. Use two forks to gently shred into large chunks. Transfer the shredded pork back to the slow cooker and toss with the onions and sauce.

Serve on buns with apple cider vinegar coleslaw. Enjoy!

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary