Can You Make Pulled Pork Loin In An Instant Pot? Here’s How!

Pulled pork is a staple of Southern cuisine, but can you make it with pork loin instead of shoulder? The answer is yes! While pork shoulder is the traditional cut for pulled pork, pork loin is a leaner, more tender option that yields equally delicious results.

Choosing the Right Pork Loin

When selecting a pork loin for pulled pork, look for a piece that is at least 3 pounds and has a good amount of marbling. Marbling is the white streaks of fat within the meat, and it helps to keep the pork moist and flavorful during cooking.

Seasoning the Pork Loin

Once you have chosen your pork loin, it’s time to season it. You can use your favorite rub or marinade, but here is a simple and effective recipe:

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and rub them all over the pork loin. Cover the pork loin and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Cooking the Pork Loin

The next step is to cook the pork loin. You can do this in the oven, slow cooker, or on the grill.

Oven: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Slow cooker: Place the pork loin in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the pork loin for 20-30 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Shredding the Pork Loin

Once the pork loin is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, shred the pork using two forks or a meat shredder.

Saucing the Pulled Pork Loin

The final step is to sauce the pulled pork loin. You can use your favorite barbecue sauce, or you can make your own. Here is a simple and delicious recipe:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Serving the Pulled Pork Loin

Pulled pork loin can be served on sandwiches, tacos, or salads. It can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

Other Tips for Making Pulled Pork Loin

• If you don’t have a meat shredder, you can use two forks to shred the pork loin.
• If you are using a slow cooker, you can add some liquid to the pot, such as water, chicken broth, or apple juice. This will help to keep the pork loin moist.
• If you are grilling the pork loin, make sure to keep a close eye on it so that it doesn’t burn.
• Pulled pork loin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Wrap-Up: Enjoying a Delicious Pulled Pork Loin

Whether you make it in the oven, slow cooker, or on the grill, pulled pork loin is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Questions You May Have

Q: What is the best cut of pork for pulled pork?
A: Pork shoulder is the traditional cut for pulled pork, but pork loin is a leaner, more tender option that yields equally delicious results.

Q: How do I know when the pulled pork loin is done cooking?
A: The pulled pork loin is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can I make pulled pork loin ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make pulled pork loin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.