Unveil The Secrets: How To Make Pulled Pork In Your Air Fryer, A Culinary Masterpiece

Craving tender, juicy pulled pork without the hassle of a smoker or slow cooker? Look no further than your air fryer! This innovative kitchen appliance makes it a breeze to create mouthwatering pulled pork in a fraction of the time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of how to make pulled pork in air fryer, ensuring a delectable meal that will tantalize your taste buds.

Gather Your Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Prepare the Pork

1. Remove the pork shoulder from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Trim any excess fat from the pork.
3. In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, liquid smoke (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the bowl and coat it evenly with the marinade.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pork for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Cook the Pork in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 250°F (120°C).
2. Place the pork shoulder in the air fryer basket, skin side down.
3. Cook for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured using a meat thermometer.
4. Flip the pork shoulder and cook for an additional hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 190-195°F (88-90°C).

Rest and Shred the Pork

1. Remove the pork shoulder from the air fryer and let it rest for 30 minutes before shredding.
2. Using two forks or a pair of meat claws, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

Create a Flavorful Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of the marinade with 1/2 cup of water.
2. Heat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly.

Combine the Pork and Sauce

1. Place the shredded pork in a large bowl.
2. Pour the sauce over the pork and stir to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your pulled pork on buns or tortillas with your favorite toppings. Some popular options include coleslaw, pickles, onions, and BBQ sauce.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Pork in Air Fryer

• Use a boneless pork shoulder for best results.
• Marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for maximum flavor.
• Cook the pork to an internal temperature of 190-195°F (88-90°C) for tender, juicy results.
• Let the pork rest for 30 minutes before shredding to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Create a flavorful sauce by combining the marinade with water and heating it until it thickens.

Variations on Pulled Pork in Air Fryer

• Spicy Pulled Pork: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Chipotle Pulled Pork: Use chipotle BBQ sauce and add 1/2 cup of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo to the marinade.
• Apple Cider Pulled Pork: Substitute apple cider for apple cider vinegar in the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Carolina Pulled Pork: Use a vinegar-based BBQ sauce and add 1/4 cup of mustard to the marinade.

Summary: Elevate Your Pulled Pork Game

With these step-by-step instructions and variations, you can master the art of how to make pulled pork in air fryer. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a comforting meal, this tender, juicy pulled pork will satisfy every time. So grab your air fryer and let the culinary adventure begin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other cuts of pork for pulled pork in air fryer?
A: While pork shoulder is the traditional cut for pulled pork, you can also use boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin. However, these cuts may require less cooking time.

Q: What if I don’t have liquid smoke?
A: Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor to the pulled pork, but it’s not essential. If you don’t have it, simply omit it from the marinade.

Q: Can I cook pulled pork in air fryer without marinating it?
A: Marinating the pork helps to tenderize it and enhance the flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can cook the pork without marinating it. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I store leftover pulled pork?
A: Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: What are some creative uses for pulled pork in air fryer?
A: Pulled pork can be used in a variety of dishes, such as sandwiches, tacos, salads, pizzas, and soups. It’s also a great filling for empanadas or spring rolls.