Instant Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork
Are you a fan of delicious, tender, and flavorful pulled pork? Do you also love the convenience and speed of cooking with an Instant Pot? If so, then you’re in for a treat with this Instant Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork recipe! It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, with a hint of tanginess from the Dr Pepper. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Preparing the Pork
The first step in making this delectable pulled pork is to choose the right cut of meat. You’ll want to go for a pork shoulder or pork butt, as these cuts are known for their tenderness and rich flavor. Once you have your meat, give it a good rinse under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Next, it’s time to season the pork. You can create a simple dry rub using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and brown sugar. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the meat. Massage the dry rub onto all sides of the pork, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
Using the Instant Pot
Now comes the fun part Рcooking the pork in the Instant Pot! Start by setting the Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat some oil in it. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork into the pot and sear it on all sides. This will help lock in the juices and create a nice crust.
After searing the pork, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Pour in some Dr Pepper into the pot, along with a few cloves of garlic and a sliced onion. These ingredients will infuse the meat with their flavors as it cooks. Return the pork to the pot and secure the lid.
Set the Instant Pot to manual mode and cook the pork on high pressure for about 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of the meat. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Shredding the Meat
Once the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot. You’ll be greeted with the most incredible aroma of tender pulled pork. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. It should be so tender that it practically falls apart.
At this point, you have two options for finishing the pulled pork. You can either return it to the Instant Pot and mix it with the cooking liquid for an extra flavorful and moist result, or you can transfer it to a baking sheet and broil it for a few minutes to get a slightly crispy exterior. Both methods are equally delicious, so choose whichever you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Instant Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork is ready, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy! This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways. You can pile it onto a soft bun and top it with coleslaw for a classic pulled pork sandwich. Or, you can serve it alongside some creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting dinner. The options are endless!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Instant Pot, some Dr Pepper, and a pork shoulder, and get ready to create a truly mouthwatering meal. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different soda instead of Dr Pepper?
Absolutely! While Dr Pepper adds a unique flavor to the pulled pork, you can experiment with other sodas like Coca-Cola or root beer for different taste profiles.
2. Can I make this recipe with a different cut of pork?
While pork shoulder or pork butt are the recommended cuts for pulled pork, you can try using other cuts like pork loin. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
3. Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Definitely! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make delicious pulled pork by slow cooking it in the oven or a slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. How long can I store the leftovers?
The leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
5. Can I use a different seasoning for the pork?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the seasonings and spices you use for the dry rub. You can add chili powder, cumin, or even some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
6. Can I use a boneless pork roast?
Yes, you can use a boneless pork roast for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless cuts tend to cook faster.
7. Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you prefer a spicy pulled pork, you can add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the dry rub. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
8. Can I use the cooking liquid for a sauce?
Definitely! The cooking liquid from the Instant Pot can be strained and reduced to create a delicious sauce for the pulled pork. Simply simmer it on the stovetop until it thickens.
In conclusion, this Instant Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork recipe is a game-changer when it comes to quick and flavorful meals. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have tender and juicy pulled pork that will impress your family and friends. So, fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to savor every mouthful of this irresistible dish!
Instant Pot Dr Pepper Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- 4 cups of pepper-flavored soda with caffeine (like Dr Pepper®)
- 2 cups of barbecue sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray's®) , divided
- 1 pound of pork tenderloin
- 4 hamburger buns (no specific type mentioned)
- 2 cups of pre-made coleslaw (optional)
Instructions
- In a multi-functional pressure cooker, combine soda and 1/2 cup of barbeque sauce.
- Place the pork tenderloin in the pressure cooker.
- Close and lock the lid of the pressure cooker.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions to select high pressure and set the timer for 50 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to build for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions to release the pressure naturally for 10 to 40 minutes.
- Take out the pork loin from the pressure cooker and drain the liquid.
- Use two forks to shred the pork.
- Return the shredded pork to the pressure cooker and mix in the remaining 1 1/2 cups of barbeque sauce.
- Serve the shredded pork on hamburger buns.
- Top with coleslaw.
- If using frozen pork loin, add 5 minutes to the cook time.
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