Irresistible Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork Recipe

Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching. Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with the sweet and spicy notes of apple cider, all coming together in a magical one-pot wonder that practically cooks itself. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings where everyone gathers around the table, forks ready and mouths watering in anticipation.

Picture this: It’s a cool autumn evening, and the aroma of spiced apple cider wafts through your home, drawing everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame. As you serve up this delicious pulled pork, stories are shared over bites of sweet, tangy perfection. Trust me when I say that once you try this Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork, your dinner parties will never be the same again.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Shoulder: Choose a well-marbled shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor; about 3-4 pounds works best.
• Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider adds sweetness; avoid vinegar-based types for the best results.
• Onion: A yellow onion gives a nice depth of flavor; chop it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste; mince them for better distribution in the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Adds caramelization and sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference.

For the Spices:

• Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a delightful smoky flavor; use sweet or hot depending on your taste.
• Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth and complements the apple cider beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut it into large chunks so it fits nicely in your Instant Pot.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a little olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re fragrant—around three minutes should do it.

Step 3: Add Spice

Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir until everything is coated evenly and let those flavors mingle for another minute.

Step 4: Pour in Apple Cider

Add your fresh apple cider to the pot along with the seasoned pork chunks. Give it all a good mix so that every piece of meat gets some love.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for about an hour. You’ll want to let it naturally release pressure afterward—this step is crucial for tender meat!

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Once done, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return it back into the juices for extra flavor before serving.

Transfer to plates or buns and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this tantalizing creation with friends or family as you relish every bite of this delightful dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the pork first to lock in those savory juices, then sauté your onions and garlic while preparing the apple cider mixture. Pressure cook everything together for a deliciously tender finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the apple cider for apple juice or even beer for a different flavor profile. Adding spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of apple cider to keep it moist.

I still remember the first time I made this dish—it was a rainy Sunday, and my friends devoured it while watching their favorite movie. The compliments poured in like apple cider from a freshly opened bottle!

FAQs:

What is Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork?

Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a flavorful dish made by cooking pork shoulder in an Instant Pot with apple cider, spices, and seasonings. The pressure cooking process tenderizes the pork quickly while infusing it with the sweet and tangy taste of apple cider. This recipe is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served over rice.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork?

Cooking Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes in total. This time includes around 10 minutes for the pot to come to pressure and about an hour for the actual cooking time. Once complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes for optimal tenderness.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of meat like beef chuck or chicken. However, keep in mind that cooking times will vary. For instance, chicken cooks faster than pork shoulder. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose to ensure it remains tender and flavorful.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork?

There are many delicious sides that pair well with Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork. Consider serving it on soft buns as sliders, alongside coleslaw for crunch, or with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. You can also enjoy it over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty option.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork:

In summary, Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish packed with flavor. Using apple cider adds a unique sweetness that complements the savory pork perfectly. The pressure cooking method not only saves time but also ensures juicy and tender results every time. This versatile meal can be served in various ways, making it ideal for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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Instant Pot Apple Cider Pulled Pork

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory with this tender pulled pork infused with rich apple cider flavors, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 lbs Pork Shoulder
• 2 cups Fresh Apple Cider
• 1 Yellow Onion, finely chopped
• 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks to fit in your Instant Pot.
2. Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat a splash of olive oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in smoked paprika, cinnamon, and brown sugar until everything is well-coated. Cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
4. Add fresh apple cider along with the seasoned pork chunks. Mix to ensure even coating.
5. Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for around 15 minutes after cooking.
6. Remove pork from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the juices for added flavor. Serve on buns or plates, drizzling with any remaining sauce.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (125g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, consider searing the pork before cooking. Substitute apple cider with apple juice if desired. Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs or spices like cumin or chili powder.