Pulled pork is a BBQ classic — and for good reason. It's forgiving, flavour-packed, and perfect whether you’re firing up a smoker or using a slow cooker in your kitchen.

The secret? A great rub, low and slow heat, and just a bit of patience.

Here’s how to master pulled pork at home, with three foolproof methods and the rubs that bring it to life.

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🧂 Choose Your Rub

Rub Flavour Profile Best For
Hickory Hog Sweet, smoky, traditional BBQ Classic pulled pork
Al Pastor Sweet, citrusy, Latin-style Taco bowls, wraps
SPG Clean base, customisable layer Sauce-heavy or glazed cooks

✅ Explore all options in the Pork Rubs Collection.

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🔥 Method 1 – BBQ (Smoker or Charcoal)

  • Coat pork shoulder generously with your chosen rub
  • Let rest for 1–4 hours (overnight if possible)
  • Cook indirect at ~120°C for 6–8 hours
  • Wrap in foil or butcher paper at the stall (~70°C internal)
  • Continue until 92–95°C internal temp
  • Rest wrapped for 1 hour before shredding

🔥 Pro tip: add a drip tray with apple juice for extra moisture.

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🔥 Method 2 – Oven

  • Preheat oven to 140°C (fan)
  • Rub pork shoulder and place in a deep tray or Dutch oven
  • Cover with lid or foil and roast for 5–6 hours
  • Uncover for the last 30 minutes to crisp the bark
  • Let rest before shredding

Works well with SPG + Hickory Hog layered together.

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💨 Method 3 – Slow Cooker

  • Rub pork the night before for max flavour
  • Place in slow cooker with a splash of stock, apple juice or cola
  • Cook 8 hours on low
  • Shred and reduce liquid if needed
  • Finish with extra rub and a squeeze of lime or vinegar for punch

Recommended rub: Al Pastor for Latin-inspired bowls or tacos

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🍽️ How to Serve It

  • Classic pulled pork buns with slaw
  • Loaded nachos or jacket potatoes
  • Tacos with pineapple salsa and pickled onion
  • Over rice or mashed potatoes with BBQ sauce

✨ Bonus: Use leftovers in wraps, traybakes or toasties the next day.

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🛒 Build Your Pulled Pork Kit

📸 Got your own epic pork pull? Tag @Smokey.Rebel and use #PulledPorkRebel

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❓FAQs – Pulled Pork Made Easy

What cut should I use for pulled pork?
Pork shoulder (also called Boston butt) is ideal. Look for well-marbled pieces with good fat content.

Can I make pulled pork in advance?
Yes — pulled pork reheats really well. Store it in its juices and reheat slowly for best results.

How long should I let it rest?
Minimum 30 minutes, but ideally 1 hour wrapped in foil to retain juices and finish breaking down.

Which rub is best for tacos or bowls?
Try Al Pastor for a citrus-sweet twist, or mix it with SPG for a balanced base.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Portion into bags with some of the cooking juices and freeze for up to 3 months.

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