Pulled Pork & Cheese Recipe
Make Pulled Pork & Cheese Recipe in just 4h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pulled Pork
Cheese & Assembly
Method
Pulled Pork
- 1
Prepare spice rub
In a small bowl combine kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to create an even rub.
- 2
Season pork
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil over the surface, then massage the spice rub all over the pork, pressing it into any crevices so it adheres evenly.
- 3
Sear (optional)
Heat a large heavy ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork and sear on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). This step builds flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
- 4
Braise
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the seared pork in the Dutch oven or transfer to a roasting pan. Pour the stock and apple cider vinegar around (not over) the pork to keep the rub intact. Cover tightly with a lid or foil and braise in the oven until the pork is fork-tender, about 3 to 3.5 hours (internal temperature should be 195–205°F / 90–96°C for easy shredding).
- 5
Shred and sauce
Remove the pork to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. Using two forks or meat claws, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, discarding excess fat. Skim any fat from the braising liquid and stir the remaining juices into the pork. Add the barbecue sauce and gently mix until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper or additional vinegar/BBQ sauce as desired.
- 6
Reduce cooking liquid (optional)
If you prefer thicker saucy pork, pour the braising liquid into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to a glaze (about 6–10 minutes). Stir into shredded pork.
Cheese & Assembly
- 7
- 8
Melt cheese onto pork
Spoon a generous portion of the hot pulled pork onto the bottom bun. Sprinkle a combined 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar and 2 tablespoons of Monterey Jack over the hot pork to let it begin to melt. For fully melted cheese, place assembled open-faced sandwiches under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted (optional).
- 9
- 10
Serve
Serve the pulled pork & cheese sandwiches with extra barbecue sauce on the side and any preferred accompaniments (coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad).