Next, I transfer the seared meat to my Crockpot, placing it on top of the sliced onions and minced garlic. I pour the can of Coca-Cola over the meat, letting it soak in all those sweet, fizzy flavors. Then I coat everything generously with my favorite BBQ sauce. It’s like layering a flavor bomb! I also like to add a splash of extra cola and BBQ sauce for good measure. Once all that’s done, I set my slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 8 hours. The house fills with the tantalizing smell of sweet pork as it slowly cooks to perfection.
After those long, patient hours, the moment arrives! I carefully remove the pork from the Crockpot, letting it cool for a few minutes. Then comes the fun part: I grab two forks and shred the meat until it’s perfectly pulled apart. It’s like therapy, I promise! I save some of the cooking juices to mix back in with the pulled pork for extra moisture and flavor. The result is a smoky, sweet, and utterly delicious pulled pork that is perfect for any occasion.
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I’ve learned from making this recipe multiple times is that the quality of the pork really matters. I’ve tried it with different brands, and some cuts turn out more flavorful than others. Spending a little extra on a good-quality pork shoulder from a butcher can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to ask about the best cut they have!
Another tip I picked up is not to skip the searing step, even though it’s tempting to save time. That caramelization really adds a layer of depth and complexity to the overall flavor—that delicious crust is worth it! Plus, it gives me a chance to get those delicious brown bits off the pan, which I love to scrape into the slow cooker for extra flavor.
Lastly, if you have the time, let the pulled pork sit in the cooking juices for about 30 minutes after shredding. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it even more tasty when you dig in later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I see is using a boneless pork loin instead of shoulder or butt for this recipe. While it might seem like a healthier option, pork loin tends to dry out when cooked low and slow, resulting in a less satisfying outcome. Stick with the shoulder or butt for the best results!
Another mistake I’ve made in the past is adding too much liquid. The Coca-Cola combined with the natural juices from the pork creates enough moisture, so don’t be tempted to add extra! It can turn your pulled pork into a watery mess instead of a deliciously saucy dish.
Be careful with the BBQ sauce too; I learned the hard way that using a sauce that’s too sweet can overpower the dish. I prefer to use a tangy BBQ sauce, which pairs beautifully with the flavors of the Coca-Cola. Experiment with different brands to find the perfect match for your taste buds! (See the next page below to continue…)