Pulled Pork Bowl

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Pulled Pork Bowl. It features tender, slow-cooked pork seasoned with a savory spice rub, served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with a refreshing, tangy coleslaw. A final drizzle of smoky BBQ sauce ties everything together for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal bursting with American flair.

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This recipe is designed for ease, utilizing a slow cooker to transform a simple pork shoulder into a succulent centerpiece. Whether you are prepping for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, these bowls offer a satisfying and colorful presentation that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Pork: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless pork shoulder or pork butt, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120 ml) BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving).
• Rice or Grain: 2 cups (400 g) cooked white or brown rice, or cooked quinoa.
• Coleslaw: 2 cups (140 g) shredded green cabbage, 1 cup (70 g) shredded red cabbage, 1 medium carrot (grated), 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnishes: Sliced green onions (optional), fresh cilantro (optional).

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pulled Pork

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork. Place the pork in a slow cooker and add chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the pork is very tender. Remove and shred with two forks, then return to the cooker, stir in 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, and keep warm.

2. Make the Coleslaw

In a large bowl, combine the cabbages and carrot. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables, toss to coat, and chill until ready to serve.

3. Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice or grain among four bowls. Top each with generous portions of pulled pork and coleslaw. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and garnish with green onions or cilantro if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the most tender results, keep the slow cooker lid closed throughout the 8-hour cooking process. For the shredding phase, using two forks is the most effective way to achieve the perfect texture. Essential tools for this recipe include a slow cooker, mixing bowls, and a sharp knife for the vegetables.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter alternative, replace the mayonnaise in the coleslaw with Greek yogurt. You can also swap the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to vary the nutrition. If you are short on time, a store-bought coleslaw mix works perfectly as a substitute for fresh cabbage.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your Pulled Pork Bowls with a garnish of fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for a bright finish. This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp lager or a refreshing glass of iced tea. It is an ideal dish for those seeking a gluten-free option, provided you select a gluten-free BBQ sauce.

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With 550 calories and 36g of protein per serving, this bowl is a balanced and energizing meal. It contains egg from the mayonnaise, but can be easily adapted with egg-free alternatives for those with sensitivities. Enjoy this flavorful American classic!

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does the pork need to cook?

The pork shoulder cooks on low heat in the slow cooker for approximately 8 hours until very tender and easily shreddable with forks.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the pulled pork reheats beautifully and actually develops more flavor over time. Prepare everything up to 3 days in advance and store components separately.

→ What cut of pork works best?

Boneless pork shoulder or pork butt works ideal due to their marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down during slow cooking creating tender, flavorful meat.

→ How do I make the coleslaw lighter?

Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing, or use a combination of both for a lighter version that still maintains creaminess and tang.

→ What sides pair well with this bowl?

Crisp lager, iced tea, or cornbread complement the smoky flavors. For extra freshness, serve with pickled jalapeños or a simple cucumber salad.

→ Can I use instant pot instead of slow cooker?

Certainly. Cook the seasoned pork on high pressure for 60-70 minutes with natural release, then shred and stir in BBQ sauce as directed.