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–+ servings

Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Angela Milnes
This Instant Pot Pulled Pork is the perfect go-to for a tender, flavorful meal that’s ready in a fraction of the time! Juicy and seasoned to perfection, this pulled pork is ideal for sandwiches, tacos, or serving with your favorite sides.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Course Instant Pot Pork
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 551 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¼ cup Brown Sugar packed and divided
  • 2 teaspoon Sweet Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • pinch Salt and Pepper
  • 2 pounds Boneless Pork
  • 2-3 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 2 ¾ cups Water divided
  • ½ cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 3 tablespoon Tomato Paste
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Combine 2 tablespoon brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder and salt and pepper in a bowl. Rub on pork.
  • Set Instant Pot to saute setting and pour olive oil into the inner pot.
  • Add pork to the heated inner pot and brown on all sides for about 2-3 minutes each.
  • Turn off saute setting and remove pork from the inner pot - place on a separate plate and set aside.
  • Pour half of the water into the inner lid and remove any brown bits that are stuck to the bottom of the inner pot.
  • Place the pork back into the inner pot.
  • In a bowl, mix together remaining water and brown sugar, apple cider vinegar and tomato paste.
  • Pour vinegar mixture into the inner pot.
  • Close the lid to the Instant Pot and set on manual high pressure for 40 minutes.
  • Once the time is up, allow for a QPR (Quick Pressure Release).
  • Open the Instant Pot’s lid and remove pork from the inner pot. Place in a large bowl.
  • Use two forks to shred the pork. Add barbecue sauce and mix.
  • Serve in hamburger buns or as a main with salads of your choice. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Optimal Browning: Sear the pork in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before pressure cooking. This step enhances flavor by creating a caramelized exterior.
  • Balanced Seasoning: Ensure a well-balanced flavor by adjusting the sweet, smoky, and savory elements according to personal preference when mixing the seasoning.
  • Cut Uniform Pieces: Cut the pork into uniform chunks for even cooking, ensuring all pieces reach the desired tenderness.
  • Natural Release for Tenderness: Allow a natural release of pressure after cooking to maintain the pork's tenderness and prevent it from drying out.
  • Add BBQ Sauce Thoughtfully: Mix the barbecue sauce into the pulled pork judiciously after shredding. Add gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired sauciness.

Nutrition

Calories: 551kcalCarbohydrates: 47gProtein: 53gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 136mgSodium: 969mgPotassium: 1232mgFiber: 2gSugar: 39gVitamin A: 836IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 66mgIron: 3mg
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