Sweet and Smoky Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Loin Recipe

Cook Time: 240 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 (1 1/2 pound) pork tenderloins
• 4 cups chopped onions
• 1 (18 ounce) bottle hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle diet pepper-type soda (such as Diet Dr Pepper)
• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons liquid smoke flavoring
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

Step 1: Begin by cutting each pork tenderloin into 4 equal pieces. Place the pork pieces into your slow cooker and set the heat to High.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped onions, barbecue sauce, crushed tomatoes, diet soda, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, liquid smoke, paprika, red pepper flakes, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Pour the mixture over the pork tenderloin pieces in the slow cooker, making sure the pork is fully covered with the sauce.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and let the pork cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the edges of the tenderloin begin to shred easily.

Step 5: After the pork has cooked, use two forks to shred the meat into small pieces. Reduce the slow cooker's heat to Low and cook for an additional hour to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become even more tender.

Cook's Note

You can substitute the diet soda with any other diet soda of your choice, as it is used in place of brown sugar. For this recipe, Farmland Oven Perfect Chipotle Barbecue pork loin fillets were used, but you can use any pork tenderloin that suits your preference.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	148
Total Fat	5g	6%
Saturated Fat	1g	7%
Cholesterol	48mg	16%
Sodium	322mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	10g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	16g	32%
Vitamin C	4mg	5%
Calcium	21mg	2%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	343mg	7%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The origins of pulled pork are deeply rooted in Southern American cuisine. Historically, this dish is tied to the practice of slow-cooking pork in a pit over an open flame, a method that dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Southeastern United States. Over the centuries, this technique evolved, with different regions developing their unique styles. While the term "pulled pork" became widely popular in the mid-20th century, it has its roots in the traditions of the Carolinas, where pork was smoked for long hours until it became tender and easy to pull apart with a fork. This recipe, featuring a slow cooker, brings the flavors of Southern barbecue into modern kitchens, with a convenient twist.

Regional Variations

Pulled pork varies greatly depending on the region. In North Carolina, the emphasis is on a vinegar-based sauce that provides a sharp contrast to the richness of the pork. In South Carolina, mustard-based sauces are more common, while in Memphis, tomato-based sauces with a heavy dose of sugar and spice are the norm. This particular recipe introduces a hickory smoke-flavored barbecue sauce paired with diet soda to create a uniquely sweet and smoky flavor profile. The use of Dr. Pepper as an ingredient is a nod to the innovation seen in more modern takes on classic barbecue, blending savory and sweet flavors.

How This Recipe Differs

What sets this "Sweet and Smoky Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Loin" recipe apart from other pulled pork dishes is its use of diet soda (such as Diet Dr. Pepper) as a key ingredient. The soda not only adds a subtle sweetness but also helps tenderize the meat, acting as a substitute for brown sugar. Additionally, this recipe uses pork loin instead of the traditional pork shoulder, which results in a leaner dish without sacrificing tenderness. The slow cooker method ensures that the flavors meld together over several hours, making it a hassle-free option for a rich, flavorful meal.

Where to Serve

Sweet and smoky pulled pork is versatile enough to be served in a variety of settings. It is commonly enjoyed as a main dish at casual gatherings, family dinners, or barbecues. It can be served on soft buns as part of a pulled pork sandwich, accompanied by classic sides such as coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or baked beans. It's also perfect for a comforting meal served with rice or roasted vegetables. Whether at a summer cookout or a cozy winter meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Interesting Facts

• Did you know that the term "pulled pork" refers to the process of shredding the meat? The slow cooking breaks down the collagen in the pork, making it easy to pull apart with forks or hands.
• While soda might seem like an unconventional ingredient, it has been used in cooking for years, particularly in barbecue recipes. The sugars and acidity help tenderize meats, creating a juicier, more flavorful dish.
• In the South, barbecue competitions are a serious matter, with each region claiming its own style of sauce and preparation. Pulled pork is often the centerpiece of these events, with each pitmaster adding their personal touch to the dish.
• The use of a slow cooker in this recipe is a modern convenience that allows for easy preparation and cooking without compromising on flavor or texture. Its a perfect solution for busy individuals looking to enjoy authentic barbecue without spending hours at the grill.

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