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How to Make Air Fryer Pulled Pork

Pulled pork is a classic dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. Traditionally slow-cooked for hours, this delightful meal can also be made quicker and with less fuss thanks to the modern air fryer. Using an air fryer not only saves time but also results in a tender and juicy pulled pork with a beautiful caramelised exterior. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create mouth-watering air fryer pulled pork that is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

To make your air fryer pulled pork, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)

Optional Serving Ideas:

• Burger buns or tortillas
• Coleslaw
• Pickles
• Extra barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork

Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. While a bit of fat is necessary for flavour and moisture, too much can make the dish greasy. Once trimmed, pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

2. Make the Spice Rub

In a bowl, combine the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to ensure an even distribution of flavours. This spice rub will impart a delightful smoky and sweet flavour to the pork.

3. Season the Pork

Rub the olive oil all over the pork shoulder, then generously apply the spice rub, ensuring that every part of the meat is coated. For the best results, let the seasoned pork rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavours. If you have time, consider marinating it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F). This temperature is ideal for slowly cooking the pork and ensuring it becomes wonderfully tender.

5. Cook the Pork

Place the pork shoulder in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is enough space for air circulation. Once the air fryer is preheated, cook the pork for 50 minutes. After this time, check the internal temperature; it should be at least 92°C (198°F) for the meat to be tender enough to pull apart.

6. Shred the Pork

Once cooked, remove the pork from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. After resting, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

7. Mix in the Barbecue Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the shredded pork with the barbecue sauce. Adjust the quantity of sauce to your preference, depending on how saucy you’d like it to be.

8. Serve

Your air fryer pulled pork is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it on toasted burger buns, wrapped in tortillas, or simply on a plate with sides like coleslaw and pickles. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavour!

Tips for the Best Pulled Pork

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: While an air fryer cooks faster than traditional methods, it’s essential to ensure the pork reaches the right internal temperature for optimal tenderness.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to modify the spice rub or add your favourite herbs and spices to tailor the pulled pork to your palate.
• Leftovers: Pulled pork can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, or you can freeze it for future meals.

Conclusion

Making air fryer pulled pork is a simple yet rewarding process that yields delicious results in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. Perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’ll have a succulent meal ready in no time. Enjoy!

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