Can You Make Pulled Pork The Day Before? The Answer Is Blowing Our Minds!

Pulled pork is a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its tender, juicy, and smoky flavors. While it’s typically associated with long cooking times, many home cooks wonder, “Can you make pulled pork the day before?” The answer is an emphatic yes! Preparing pulled pork ahead of time not only saves you time on the day of serving but also allows the flavors to meld and develop to perfection.

The Benefits of Making Pulled Pork the Day Before:

• Convenience: Cooking the pork in advance frees up your time on the day of your event or gathering, allowing you to focus on other aspects of hosting.
• Enhanced Flavor: Allowing the pulled pork to rest overnight allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
• Stress Reduction: Preparing the pulled pork ahead of time eliminates last-minute stress and allows you to relax and enjoy your guests.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pulled Pork the Day Before:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat:

For pulled pork, a shoulder or butt roast is ideal. These cuts have a good amount of marbling, which will keep the meat moist during cooking.

2. Season and Rub the Meat:

Generously season the meat with your favorite rub. A classic combination includes salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Cook the Pork:

Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add liquid, such as chicken broth or apple cider, to prevent the meat from drying out. Cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Shred the Pork:

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

5. Store the Pulled Pork:

Place the shredded pork in an airtight container and refrigerate it overnight. The pork will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

6. Reheat and Serve:

On the day of serving, remove the pulled pork from the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet or slow cooker until warmed through. Serve the pulled pork on sandwiches, tacos, or salads.

Tips for Making Pulled Pork the Day Before:

• Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooking will result in dry and tough meat.
• Let the pork rest: This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
• Use a flavorful rub: The rub will enhance the taste of the pork.
• Store the pork properly: Refrigerate the pulled pork in an airtight container to prevent spoilage.
• Reheat the pork gently: Overheating can dry out the meat.

Storing and Reheating Pulled Pork:

• Storage: Pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat pulled pork from the refrigerator, place it in a skillet or slow cooker and heat it over low heat until warmed through. To reheat pulled pork from the freezer, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.

Pulled Pork Variations:

• BBQ Pulled Pork: Add your favorite barbecue sauce to the shredded pork for a smoky and tangy flavor.
• Honey Garlic Pulled Pork: Mix honey, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a sweet and savory glaze for the pork.
• Mexican Pulled Pork: Season the pork with chili powder, cumin, and oregano for a flavorful twist.

Final Thoughts:

Making pulled pork the day before is not only possible but also advantageous. By preparing the pork ahead of time, you can save time, enhance the flavor, and reduce stress. Whether you’re hosting a party, gathering with friends, or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, pulled pork made the day before will be a hit.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How long can I store pulled pork in the refrigerator?
A: Pulled pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze pulled pork?
A: Yes, pulled pork can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I reheat pulled pork from the freezer?
A: Thaw the pulled pork overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in a skillet or slow cooker.