Hey, BBQ lovers!
Are you fired up for some mouthwatering goodness? I’ve got a treat for you!
Today, I’m diving into my favorite recipe for Traeger pulled pork.
It’s smoky, tender, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make on your Traeger grill!
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Let’s get that grill going and dig into this deliciousness!
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
For the pork and poultry seasoning blend, a homemade mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper can be used as a versatile alternative. This allows for customization of flavors and control over sodium content. Apple cider can be replaced with apple juice or pineapple juice for a similar fruity flavor profile; reduce the amount slightly if using juice concentrate. For those avoiding refined sugars, try a sugar-free BBQ sauce or make a homemade version using tomato paste, vinegar, and spices. This allows for better control of ingredients and can accommodate various dietary needs. Adjust the amount of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to compensate for the lack of smoky flavor from a traditional BBQ sauce.
| Preparation Time | 15-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 360-540 minutes |
| Total Time | 375-570 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 200-300
- Protein: 5-10 g
- Fat: 0-5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
For the pork:
- 1 pork and poultry seasoning (I like Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub)
- 1 pork butt (8-10 lb, bone-in Boston butt preferred)
For the braising liquid:
- 2 cups apple cider (not apple juice, for tartness)
For serving:
- 1 bbq sauce (your favorite brand, like Sweet Baby Ray’s)
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Butt
Trim the pork butt of any excess fat to prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Generously season it all over with Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub.
Let the seasoned pork sit while you preheat the grill, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill and Start the Cooking Process
Preheat the Traeger grill with the lid closed to 250°F; this should take about 15 minutes.
Once preheated, insert a leave-in meat thermometer into the pork butt, aiming for the center and avoiding any bone.
Place the pork butt fat side up directly on the grill grate.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which should take about 3 to 5 hours, though time will vary based on factors like pork size and weather.
Step 3: Wrap and Flavor the Pork Butt
On a large baking sheet, stack 4 large pieces of aluminum foil on top of each other, making sure they are wide enough to completely cover the pork butt.
If necessary, overlap foil pieces to widen the base.
Transfer the pork butt to the foil stack, fat side up.
Fold up the sides of the foil to create a shallow boat around the pork, then pour apple cider over it.
Wrap the foil tightly around the pork, ensuring the tip of the meat thermometer stays exposed and the cider is sealed inside.
Step 4: Continue Cooking to Perfection
Return the foil-wrapped pork butt to the grill, fat side up, and continue to cook until the internal temperature reaches 204°F.
This will require another 3 to 4 hours.
The slow cooking ensures tender, flavorful meat.
Step 5: Rest and Shred the Pork
Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 45 minutes while still wrapped in foil.
This allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to shred.
After resting, remove the pork from the foil and pour any excess liquid into a fat separator to remove unwanted fat.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Shred the pork, discarding the bone and any remaining excess fat.
Mix the separated liquid back into the shredded pork for added moisture and flavor.
Season to taste with more Pork & Poultry Rub.
Optionally, you can add Traeger ‘Que BBQ Sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce to taste.
Serve the pulled pork by itself, in recipes, or on sandwiches.
Keep leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy your delicious Traeger pulled pork!
