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Pulled pork is a classic favorite in the world of barbecue, but traditional methods like slow-cooking or smoking can take hours. If you’re craving that tender, juicy flavor but are short on time, the air fryer is here to save the day. With the right seasoning and a few simple steps, you can make delicious pulled pork in a fraction of the time. Here’s how to prepare flavorful and fast air fryer pulled pork for your next feast.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Pulled Pork?
Using an air fryer for pulled pork is a game-changer for several reasons. First, the air fryer allows for faster cooking times compared to traditional slow-cooking methods, meaning you can enjoy that tender pork without waiting for hours. Additionally, the high heat of the air fryer helps create a perfect crispy exterior while locking in the juicy interior, making it ideal for pulled pork. Lastly, it’s more energy-efficient, using less electricity than an oven or smoker.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Pulled Pork
To make your pulled pork in the air fryer, you’ll need:
- 2-3 pounds of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Pulled Pork
1. Prepare the Pork
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. You want enough fat to keep the meat juicy, but not so much that it becomes greasy. Cut the pork into large, manageable chunks, roughly 2-3 inches in size, to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.
2. Season the Pork
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub the pork chunks with olive oil to help the seasoning stick, then coat the pork evenly with the spice mixture. Make sure each piece is generously covered for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the pork will cook evenly and helps achieve that crispy outer texture.
4. Cook the Pork
Place the seasoned pork chunks in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd the pieces. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, turning the pork halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 195°F (90°C) for easy shredding.
5. Shred the Pork
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute. After the pork has rested, use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add the BBQ Sauce
In a large bowl, toss the shredded pork with your favorite BBQ sauce until evenly coated. If you prefer a saucier pulled pork, feel free to add more sauce to your taste.
Serving Suggestions for Pulled Pork
Pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few delicious serving ideas:
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on toasted buns with coleslaw and pickles for a classic BBQ sandwich.
- Pulled Pork Tacos: Use tortillas and top the pulled pork with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime for a flavorful taco night.
- Pulled Pork Salad: For a lighter option, serve the pulled pork over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of BBQ sauce as a dressing.
Conclusion
Air fryer pulled pork offers the best of both worlds: the rich, smoky flavors you crave in traditional barbecue and the convenience of a faster cooking method. With the right seasoning and technique, you can enjoy tender, juicy pulled pork in less than half the time it would take using other methods. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a summer cookout, this air fryer pulled pork recipe will impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds.
