Bobby Flay Pulled Pork Slow Cooker Recipe – Hungarian Chef

If you’ve found yourself pondering what goes well with Bobby Flay’s slow cooker pulled pork, you’re not alone. 

This dish is rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Pair it with crunchy coleslaw for a refreshing complement, or go for classic potato salad; both add a cool counterpoint to the warm pulled pork. Cornbread is another favorite that pairs perfectly, offering a slight sweetness that enhances the BBQ flavors. And hey, don’t forget about a crisp pickle for some zing!

A sunday afternoon, the sun streaming through the window. Your slow cooker gently bubbling away, filling the air with that unmistakable aroma of smoky chipotle BBQ. It’s a day meant for family gatherings, game nights, or even just an indulgent self-care meal.

 What am I talking about? The legendary Bobby Flay’s pulled pork recipe made in a slow cooker.

As a food blogger and registered dietitian, I can assure you this recipe is not just food; it’s an experience. With every pull of the fork, you uncover layers of flavor that dance on your palate. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flavor. 

Trust me; this isn’t just any pulled pork. It stands out from the crowd, creating memories around the dinner table.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Unique Flavor Profile:
This pulled pork is infused with a special smoky chipotle BBQ sauce that melds beautifully with the pork shoulder. The mix of spices, like ancho and pasilla chili powders, adds depth. It’s not just sweet or spicy; it offers a complete taste experience.

2. Slow Cooking Perfection:
Using a slow cooker allows the pork to cook low and slow. The fat renders, and the meat breaks down into tender strands. You’ll find that it practically falls apart with minimal effort. This hands-off cooking means you can spend more time enjoying your day rather than hovering over a stove.

3. Adaptable to Your Taste:
Got a sweet tooth? You can adjust the sugar content in the sauce. Prefer it mildly spicy? Keep those jalapeños to a minimum. This recipe is forgiving and allows for personalization.

4. Easy Preparation:
With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is approachable for novice cooks. It’s a fantastic way to impress your family or friends without spending an entire day slaving over a hot stove. Just toss everything in and let the magic happen.

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How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine sinking your teeth into a generous serving of pulled pork. The first bite reveals a tender mouthful bursting with flavor. Sweetness from the brown sugar and molasses hugs the savory notes of the pork.

Then, after a moment, the smokiness rolls in, perfectly balanced by a hint of spice from the chipotle peppers. The meat has a delightful texture that is both juicy and comforting.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Variations?

Bobby Flay’s approach to pulled pork isn’t your run-of-the-mill BBQ fare. It’s meticulously balanced with a homemade chipotle BBQ sauce that elevates the dish. 

Other recipes may rely on store-bought sauces that can often be overly sweet or lacking in depth. The inclusion of almond butter adds an unexpected creaminess, which ties together the varying flavors beautifully.

I’ve made many pulled pork dishes, but Bobby Flay’s version truly tantalizes the taste buds. Each ingredient serves a purpose, leading to an overall flavor that leaves you wanting more.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create this deliciousness:

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
• 1 tablespoon pasilla chili powder
• 1 tablespoon New Mexican chili powder
• 3 cups canned whole tomatoes, pureed with their juices
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, pureed
• 1/2 cup smooth almond butter
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Pork Butt:

• 1 boneless pork shoulder, excess fat removed
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup rice wine vinegar
• 1 cup Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce
• 2 fresh jalapeños, diced
• 1 large red onion, diced
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 8 soft sandwich buns, for serving

Black Pepper Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1 generous tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Saute them until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chili powders. Let that cook for another 2 minutes. This step helps release the flavors.

Next, add the pureed tomatoes, water, ketchup, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, agave nectar, molasses, mustard, chipotle peppers, and almond butter to the mix. 

Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. It will thicken up and create a rich sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork

While the sauce simmers, it’s time to prep the pork. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks for easier handling. Season the pieces generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the pork shoulder pieces to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, rice wine vinegar, and the freshly made BBQ sauce. Toss in the diced jalapeños, red onion, and minced garlic. Mix everything well until the pork is nicely coated.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork easily falls apart with a fork. Resist the urge to peek too often; let those flavors deepen!

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, remove the pork pieces. Shred them with two forks. Return the shredded pork to the sauce in the slow cooker to soak up even more flavor. Serve this on soft sandwich buns with extra sauce, if desired.

Notes

• Choose the Right Pork: Look for bone-in pork shoulder for maximum flavor.
• Spice Adjustment: Don’t hesitate to tweak the heat levels. Add more chipotle if you want it spicier.
• Resting Time: Let the shredded pork rest in the sauce for at least 15 minutes before serving. It absorbs the flavors even more.
• Sauce Storage: Leftover sauce can be refrigerated and used as a marinade or additional drizzle on other meats.
• Make Ahead: You can make the BBQ sauce a day in advance. It gets even better after a night in the fridge.

How Do You Store This Pulled Pork?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to blend beautifully over time. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe bags; this way, you have a quick meal ready to go whenever the cravings strike!

Sides for Bobby Flay Pulled Pork

1. Crunchy Coleslaw
A classic pairing! The cool, crisp textures of coleslaw contrast wonderfully with the richness of pulled pork. Make it with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinegar dressing that cuts through the meat’s decadence.

2. Macaroni and Cheese
This comfort dish is cheesy and creamy. The richness melds beautifully with BBQ flavors. Opt for a baked version with a crunchy topping to enhance the experience.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob brings sweetness and a bit of char that complements BBQ perfectly. Brush with butter and sprinkle some chili powder for an extra kick!

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

1. Pork Shoulder Swap:
If you can’t find pork shoulder, use pork loin. Note that it won’t be as juicy but still will work fine for shredding.

2. Tomato Options:
No canned tomatoes? Use fresh tomatoes; just blanch them for easy peeling. You can also opt for store-bought BBQ sauce in a pinch, but keep in mind the flavor difference.

3. Sweetener Choices:
Run out of molasses? Use honey or agave syrup. Each will impart a different undertone but still sweeten throughout the cooking process.

4. Dietary Adjustments:
For a gluten-free version, go for gluten-free soy sauce, or leave it out entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In closing, Bobby Flay’s pulled pork slow cooker recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary delight. Every element combines to create something special. The prep is straightforward, making it an ideal dish for busy evenings or gatherings with friends. 

And let’s not forget, it’s versatile! Whether you’re serving it with classic sides or experimenting with your own flavor profiles, this dish is sure to please. 

So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy pulled pork that truly impresses—your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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