Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork
Get ready to elevate your pulled pork game with this **Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork**! This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of coffee with a blend of spices to create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even served over rice. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something hearty, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Inspired by Southern barbecue traditions with a modern twist, the coffee rub adds a deep, earthy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the pork. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell amazing!
Why This Recipe Works
1. Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker is your best friend here. Simply rub the pork with the coffee spice blend, set it in the cooker, and let it work its magic. No need to babysit the stove or oven!
2. Bold, Unique Flavors: The combination of coffee, smoked paprika, and brown sugar creates a complex flavor profile that’s smoky, slightly sweet, and utterly irresistible.
3. Versatile and Customizable: This pulled pork can be used in so many ways—tacos, sliders, salads, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
What’s In Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork?
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Pork Shoulder: A 4-5 lb pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is ideal for slow cooking. It’s marbled with fat, which keeps the meat tender and juicy.
- Coffee Rub: A blend of ground coffee, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. The coffee adds depth, while the spices bring warmth and smokiness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness to balance the richness of the pork.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps the pork moist during the long cooking process.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for serving.
How To Make Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork
This recipe is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most tender and flavorful pulled pork:
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Rub
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of ground coffee, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Step 2: Rub the Pork
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Generously rub the coffee spice mixture all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
- Place the pork in the slow cooker. Add ½ cup of apple cider vinegar and ½ cup of chicken broth to the bottom of the cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat.
- Optional: Skim the fat from the cooking liquid and mix some of the liquid back into the shredded pork for extra moisture and flavor.
- Serve the pulled pork with your favorite BBQ sauce and sides.
Sides for Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork
Pair your pulled pork with these delicious sides:
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing that adds a refreshing crunch.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up the juices.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the pork.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A hearty and slightly sweet side dish.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use pork loin, but it won’t be as tender or flavorful as pork shoulder. Pork shoulder is the best choice for pulled pork.
Can I Make This in the Oven?
Absolutely! Rub the pork as directed, place it in a Dutch oven, and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Other Recipes To Try
- Smoky Chipotle Pulled Chicken: A lighter alternative with a spicy kick.
- Coffee-Rubbed Beef Brisket: A beefy twist on this recipe, perfect for BBQ lovers.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Pork: A sweet and tangy take on pulled pork.
- Pulled Jackfruit Sandwiches: A vegan alternative with a similar texture to pulled pork.
If you like the look of this, try our 14 Must-Try Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Recipes
Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4-5 lbs 1.8-2.2 kg pork shoulder
- 2 tbsp ground coffee
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup chicken broth
- BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Rub: In a small bowl, mix coffee, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the Pork: Pat the pork dry and rub the spice mixture all over.
- Slow Cook: Place the pork in the slow cooker. Add apple cider vinegar and chicken broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours.
- Shred and Serve: Remove the pork, shred it, and mix with some of the cooking liquid. Serve with BBQ sauce.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to control the heat.
- Make Ahead: The pork can be cooked a day in advance and reheated.
- Freezing: Freeze shredded pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Alternative Cooking: Use a Dutch oven for oven cooking at 300°F (150°C) for 4-5 hours.
- Customize: Add your favorite BBQ sauce or serve with coleslaw for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Enjoy your **Slow Cooker Coffee-Rubbed Pulled Pork**! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!