Memphis pulled pork –Welcome to a delicious journey where we explore the mouthwatering world of Memphis Style Pulled Pork. This recipe is a beloved classic that combines rich flavors and tender meat, perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal. Follow along as we break down the ingredients and steps needed to create this savory dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Memphis Style Pulled Pork
This dish showcases a beautiful blend of spices and slow-cooked perfection. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients below!

Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for serving)
- Sandwich buns (for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Rinse it under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a dry rub.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s well coated for optimal flavor. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper taste.
- Preheat your smoker or slow cooker to low heat. If using a smoker, add your choice of wood chips to infuse that delicious smoky flavor. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker or slow cooker and pour the apple cider vinegar over the meat.
- Cook the pork for about 8 to 10 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. If you are using the oven, wrap the meat in foil and roast at 250°F for 8-10 hours.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the smoker or slow cooker and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as juicy as possible.
- After resting, use two forks to shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Serve the pulled pork on sandwich buns with a drizzle of barbecue sauce and pickles if desired. Enjoy!
This Memphis Style Pulled Pork is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of the rich spices and tender meat creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Give this recipe a try and relish the incredible flavors!