Instant Pot Pulled Pork (Printer-Friendly)

Juicy BBQ pork cooked quickly with a savory rub and tangy sauce, ideal for sandwiches and sides.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Seasoning Rub

01 - 1/2 cup brown sugar
02 - 1/4 cup smoked paprika
03 - 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon kosher salt
05 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
06 - 1 tablespoon garlic powder
07 - 1 tablespoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

→ Main

09 - 3-pound boneless pork butt
10 - 1 can soda (root beer, Dr Pepper, or Coca-Cola), 12 fl oz
11 - 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
12 - 1 bottle BBQ sauce, approximately 16 fl oz

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Remove the pork butt from the refrigerator 2 to 3 hours before cooking. Unpack and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
02 - Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl to create the rub. Use half for this recipe and reserve the remainder for later use.
03 - Generously apply the seasoning rub all over the pork butt, ensuring it is well coated. For enhanced flavor, wrap the meat in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, then bring to room temperature before continuing.
04 - Pour the can of soda and apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the pressure cooker. Stir to combine.
05 - Place the seasoned pork butt into the cooker on top of the liquid. Pour half of the BBQ sauce evenly over the pork.
06 - Secure the lid and set the pressure release valve to 'SEAL'. Set to manual high pressure for 60 minutes, estimating 15 to 20 minutes of cooking time per pound.
07 - After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then perform a quick release to vent remaining steam.
08 - Remove the pork from the cooker and discard cooking liquid. Shred meat using two forks, trimming away any excessive fat.
09 - Stir the remaining BBQ sauce into the shredded pork. Serve on soft hamburger buns topped with cole slaw if desired.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Selecting a pork butt with good marbling improves tenderness and flavor. Ensure it fits your pressure cooker size.
02 - Allowing the pork to reach room temperature before cooking promotes even cooking.
03 - Natural pressure release helps maintain juiciness and tenderness.

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