Mastering Instant Pot Pulled Pork: A Comprehensive Guide to Cooking Time and Techniques

Pulled pork, a succulent and flavorful dish, has become a culinary staple, enjoyed by families and food enthusiasts alike. While traditionally prepared in a slow cooker, the Instant Pot has emerged as a game-changer, offering a convenient and time-efficient alternative. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of cooking pulled pork in an Instant Pot, providing precise cooking times and expert techniques to achieve mouthwatering results.

Cooking Time: A Matter of Precision

The cooking time for pulled pork in an Instant Pot varies depending on the size and cut of meat used. Here’s a general guideline:

• Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt): 3-4 pounds, 40-45 minutes
• Pork Loin Roast: 3-4 pounds, 25-30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Ingredients:

• Pork shoulder or loin roast (3-4 pounds)
• Brown sugar (1 tablespoon)
• Paprika (2 teaspoons)
• Garlic powder (2 teaspoons)
• Onion powder (2 teaspoons)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Pepper (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin (1/2 teaspoon)
• Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional)
• Apple cider vinegar (1/3 cup)
• Barbecue sauce (2 cups, divided)
• Chicken or beef broth (1 1/4 cup)
• Hot pepper sauce (1 teaspoon, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat: Cut the pork into 3-4 inch cubes and season generously with the spice mixture.

2. Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté setting. Brown the pork cubes in batches, ensuring all sides are golden brown.

3. Deglaze the Pot: Remove the pork and deglaze the pot with chicken or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the pork, apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, and broth to the Instant Pot.

5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for the recommended time based on the cut of meat used.

6. Natural Release: After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.

7. Shred and Serve: Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks. Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce and serve on buns or as desired.

Tips for Optimal Results

• Marinate the Meat: For maximum flavor, marinate the pork in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.

• Control the Heat Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper used to suit your preferred level of spiciness.

• Deglazing is Crucial: Do not skip the deglazing step, as it helps prevent the “burn” warning and adds flavor to the dish.

• Natural Release is Key: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release helps tenderize the meat further.

Cooking pulled pork in an Instant Pot is a culinary adventure that yields tender, flavorful results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. By following the precise cooking times and expert techniques outlined in this guide, you can master the art of Instant Pot pulled pork and impress your family and friends with this delectable dish.