How to Make Perfect Pulled Pork on Traeger: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (5-7 lb) bone-in pork shoulder
• Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub, to taste
• 2 cups apple juice
• Traeger BBQ sauce, to taste
• 10 whole hamburger buns
• Coleslaw, for serving

Steps:

1. Preheat the Traeger Grill:

   • Set the Traeger temperature to 225℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. Use Super Smoke if available for optimal flavor.

2. Season the Pork Shoulder:

   • Generously season the pork shoulder on all sides with Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub.

3. Smoke the Pork:

   • Insert a probe into the center of the roast, avoiding the bone and any large fat pockets. Place the roast on the grill grate, fat-side up. Close the lid and smoke for 3 hours. Add apple juice to a spray bottle and spritz the roast after the first hour and then every hour thereafter.

4. Increase Grill Temperature:

   • Transfer the pork to a disposable aluminum foil pan and increase the grill temperature to 250°F. Place the pan with the pork on the grill grates, close the lid, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 203°F (6-8 hours more). If the pork browns too much, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

5. Rest the Pork:

   • Carefully transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 20 minutes. Pour the juices from the bottom of the pan into a gravy separator and discard any fat that rises to the surface.

6. Shred the Pork:

   • Pull the pork into chunks with your hands (use lined, heavy-duty rubber gloves if needed). Discard the bone and any large fat lumps, including the fat cap. Shred each chunk and transfer to a large bowl.

7. Season and Serve:

   • Season the pulled pork with additional rub and moisten with reserved pan juices. Add your favorite Traeger BBQ sauce and mix well. Serve the pork mixture on hamburger buns with coleslaw on the side. Enjoy!

The Secret to Perfect Pulled Pork

Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic favorite, and the Traeger method ensures the meat is smoky, tender, and flavorful. The key lies in the long, slow smoking process and regular spritzing with apple juice, which keeps the pork moist and infuses it with a subtle sweetness. By using a bone-in pork shoulder, you ensure the meat stays juicy and flavorful.

Tips for Enhancing Your Pulled Pork Sandwich

1. Experiment with Rubs and Sauces:

   • While Traeger’s Pork & Poultry Rub is a great choice, don’t be afraid to try different spice blends or homemade rubs. Similarly, you can experiment with various BBQ sauces to find your perfect combination.

2. Add a Crunch with Coleslaw:

   • Coleslaw isn’t just a side—it adds a delicious crunch and a tangy contrast to the rich, smoky pork. You can make your own coleslaw or use your favorite store-bought version.

3. Use Quality Buns:

   • The bread can make or break your sandwich. Opt for soft, sturdy hamburger buns that can hold the juicy pork without falling apart.

By following these tips and the detailed steps above, you’ll be able to create mouth-watering pulled pork sandwiches that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary journey with Traeger!