Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Crunchy Apple Cabbage Slaw (25 Mins + Slow Cook Time)

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This sandwich will take your pulled pork game to a whole new level.

The tender, juicy pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with a refreshing slaw made from crunchy cabbage, crisp apples, and sweet carrots.

The slaw adds a fresh, tangy crunch that perfectly complements the savory, smoky pulled pork.

This sandwich is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.

Let’s make this delicious pulled pork sandwich!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the pulled pork:

  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 large apple, julienned (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For assembly:

  • 6–8 sandwich buns
  • Extra barbecue sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pulled pork (10 minutes + 6-8 hours cooking time):
    • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or set your slow cooker to low.
    • In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
    • Transfer the pork to a Dutch oven or slow cooker. Add the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
    • If using an oven, cover and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours.
    • Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix with the juices in the pot to keep it moist.
  2. Make the apple, cabbage, and carrot slaw (10 minutes):
    • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned apple, and shredded carrots.
    • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
    • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
  3. Assemble the sandwiches (5 minutes):
    • Toast the sandwich buns lightly if desired.
    • Pile a generous amount of pulled pork onto the bottom half of each bun.
    • Top with a heaping spoonful of the apple, cabbage, and carrot slaw.
    • Add extra barbecue sauce if desired, then place the top bun over the slaw.
  4. Serve:
    • Serve the sandwiches immediately, with extra slaw on the side if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

To enhance the flavor of the pulled pork, you can marinate it in the spice rub overnight before cooking.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a slice of cheddar cheese or a pickle to each sandwich.

This pulled pork sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato salad.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious and hearty dish with your loved ones!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/pulled-pork-sandwiches-with-crunchy-apple-cabbage-slaw-25-mins-slow-cook-time/