Adding Coleslaw to Pulled Pork
I think that pulled pork sandwiches and coleslaw go together like peanut butter and jelly. The coleslaw balances the often sweet BBQ sauce and adds a little crunch and texture to the sandwich. We loved these with my coleslaw recipe. I switched it up a little; I left out the carrots and did half green cabbage and half red cabbage. In this Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork recipe we are using a combo of some seasonings, my homemade BBQ sauce (or your favorite brand), and Dr. Pepper for a unique and totally delicious sandwich. Simply take the spices called for here (3 tablespoons paprika, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt) and combine them in a small bowl. This is the recipe for my pork rub, and it is awesome. Rub the seasoning mix all over the pork shoulder, ensuring that you cover all of the sides. Then cover it back up and refrigerate overnight. In the morning proceed with the recipe as written, skipping adding these ingredients to the BBQ sauce and Dr. Pepper.
Cooking Pork Shoulder on Low
As you have heard me mention so many times, big pieces of meat like pork shoulder are much better when they are cooked low and slow. This is why I highly recommend cooking this recipe on low for eight hours versus on high for four hours. The meat will be much more tender.
Making Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork Ahead
If you would like to make this recipe the day before, that will work with this slow cooker Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork. After the recipe has finished cooking, shred it and allow it to cool a little. Then cover it and put the base of your slow cooker in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, turn it on low for about an hour for it to heat through. Please note that if you follow this method, any leftovers should be discarded. Generally speaking, leftovers should not be warmed up more than once, which is what is happening in this make-ahead method.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers of this recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat leftovers, remove just the amount you want to eat and heat it, covered, in the microwave at half power. Alternatively, heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. For best results, reheat meat with plenty of the sauce added to it. As with all recipes, use your best discretion when it comes to leftovers.
What to Serve with Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork
If you are looking for some great sides to go with this recipe, I have a few suggestions.
My Baked Potato Wedges are only three ingredients, and they come together so fast.If you are serving a crowd, my Broccoli Cauliflower Salad would go amazing on the side of these sandwiches.Finally, this Creamed Corn is incredible and was made for serving with BBQ.
If you make this Crock Pot Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork or any of my other recipes, leave me a comment and let me know what you think!
