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Air Fryer Pulled Pork: A Quick and Tasty Delight

Pulled pork is a beloved dish known for its tender, flavoursome meat, often served in sandwiches, tacos, or simply on its own. Traditionally, making pulled pork can be a time-consuming process, often requiring hours of slow-cooking to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture. However, thanks to the innovative air fryer, you can create a delicious version of this classic dish in a fraction of the time.

The Appeal of the Air Fryer

The air fryer has rapidly gained popularity in kitchens across the UK for its ability to cook food quickly while creating a crispy exterior. The appliance uses hot air circulation to cook food evenly, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. When it comes to pulled pork, the air fryer can effectively tenderise the meat while developing a caramelised crust, enhancing both texture and flavour.

Ingredients You Will Need

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

• 1 kg pork shoulder or pork butt
• 2 tablespoons 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
• 100 ml barbecue sauce (adjust to taste)
• Buns or tortillas for serving
• Optional: Pickles, coleslaw, or additional barbecue sauce for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by trimming excess fat from the pork shoulder. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel to ensure it browns nicely.

2. Create a Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil all over the pork, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then apply the spice mix generously across the surface of the meat.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure your pulled pork starts cooking immediately when placed in the fryer.

4. Air Fry the Pork:
Place the seasoned pork in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 60-75 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 90°C (195°F) for optimal shreddability.

5. Shred the Meat:
Once cooked, remove the pork from the air fryer and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

6. Mix with Barbecue Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded pork with your chosen barbecue sauce. Toss well until the meat is well coated.

7. Serve:
Serve the pulled pork in buns or tortillas, topped with pickles and coleslaw for an extra crunch. It also makes an excellent filling for nachos or a delicious topping for a baked potato.

Tips for the Perfect Pulled Pork

• Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, stick with pork shoulder or pork butt, as these cuts have enough fat to keep the meat juicy.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to adjust the spice rub to suit your taste. Add cayenne for heat or switch up the barbecue sauce for a different flavour profile.
• Leftovers: Pulled pork is great for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Conclusion

Air fryer pulled pork is not only a time-saver but also a way to enjoy a sumptuous meal without the fuss. Perfect for busy weekday dinners or laid-back weekend gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. The result? Tender, juicy pulled pork that’s bursting with flavour and ready to be devoured. So, dust off your air fryer and prepare to savour one of the easiest and most delicious variations of this classic dish!

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