Mike's Recipes

Mike's Hot Honey Pulled Pork

  • Prep Time
    12 hours
  • Difficulty
    Medium
  • Servings
    12-14 people
Ingredients
  • 8–10lb bone-in pork shoulder
  • 1/3 cup ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • Yellow mustard
  • Mike's Hot Honey
Instructions

Rinse the pork under cold water, then lay on a tray with the fat-side up.

Carefully score the fat in a cross-hatch diamond pattern, being sure to penetrate through the fat down to the meat fully.

With gloved hands, coat the pork with a thin layer of yellow mustard.

Combine the pepper, salt, and paprika in a shaker or bowl to make your BBQ rub.

Heavily coat the outside of the pork with the rub, allowing the seasoning to fully “sweat” (become wet) prior to flipping or turning to continue coating.

Fire up smoker of choice and preheat to 275 degrees. Fruit woods such as cherry or apple, combined with some pecan or oak tend to work well for pork.

Place the seasoned pork shoulder on the smoker with the fat-cap facing the heat source/fire.

Check the pork every hour or so, spritz with water if the bark appears too dry, or looks like it may burn in places.

Allow the pork to smoke until it reaches an internal temp of 165 degrees, as read on a probe thermometer. Adjust the temperature of the smoker to 325 degrees. 

Allow the pork to continue cooking until it reaches and internal temp of 202 degrees – Typically 8-12 hours after starting.

Remove the bone, drizzle meat generously with Mike’s Hot Honey and pull apart with two forks. Pile on top of a dinner roll with coleslaw, and enjoy. 

Welcome to the realm of gastronomic joy as we venture into this delicious adventure of learning how to cook a juicy smoked-pulled pork with a Mike's Hot Honey drizzle.

This pulled pork recipe combines the rich and smoky flavors of slow-cooked meat harmoniously with a sweet yet spicy kick from hot honey. Whether you're an experienced pitmaster or just a barbecue fan-in-training, have your grilling skills prepared to take on the next level.

Kitchen Equipment You'll Need

Before diving into the delicious details of this easy pulled pork recipe, ensure your kitchen is armed with the essential tools for this culinary adventure:

  • Smoker
  • Probe thermometer
  • Shaker or bowl for rub
  • Tray for pork preparation
  • Gloves for coating with mustard
  • Spritz bottle for water
  • Dinner rolls for serving
Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the meat.

Which Cut Of Meat Is Pulled Pork?

You might wonder, "What cut of meat makes the best-pulled pork?" Well, the answer is simple: pork shoulder. The marbling and fat content in pork shoulder makes it ideal for slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful pulled pork. However, if you can't find pork shoulder, don't fret. Pork butt is a worthy alternative, bringing its succulence to the party.

Tips for Smoking Pulled Pork

To ensure your recipe for pulled pork is a hit, consider these tips:
  • Patience is a virtue: Low and slow is the name of the game, so resist the temptation to rush the smoking process. Your patience will be rewarded with succulent, fall-off-the-bone goodness.
  • Spraying with water: Keep your pork moist by giving it a refreshing water mist during the smoking process.
  • Cooking racks and oil: Avoid sticky situations by using cooking racks and spraying them with oil before placing the pork.
  • Quality smoking wood: The choice of wood is crucial. As such, choose quality smoking wood to infuse that perfect smoky flavor.
  • Allow pork to steam: Once out of the smoker, let your pork steam out a bit to prevent overcooking. No one likes dry pulled pork.
As you savor the anticipation of your culinary masterpiece, let's explore how to showcase your smoky sensation.

    How to Serve Pulled Pork

    Now that your pulled pork slow cooker recipe is ready, the question is, how do you serve it? The possibilities are endless. Let your creativity run wild, from tacos and pulled pork sliders to quesadillas and nachos.
    Elevate the robust flavors of Smoked Pulled Pork with Hot Honey by serving it alongside buttery corn on the cob savory baked beans, or a crisp apple slaw. Quench your thirst with an ice-cold beer, michelada or a sweet tea for a perfect pairing, enhancing the overall barbecue experience with every delicious bite.

      Reheating & Storing Pulled Pork

      In the unlikely event that there are leftovers (we doubt it), here's how to handle them:
      • Microwave: Pop a portion into the microwave for a speedy warm-up. Just ensure that you cover it to maintain that juicy tenderness.
      • Slow cooker: The slow cooker works wonders for a more gradual heat. Add a bit of liquid to keep things moist.
      • Stovetop: Heat a skillet, add a splash of water or broth, and gently warm your pulled pork to perfection.
      To extend the joy, freezing is your friend. Divide your pulled pork into portions, seal them tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, and thaw whenever that pulled pork craving strikes. Your future self will thank you.

        Shop Mike's Hot Honey

        Ready to take your culinary adventure to the next level? Elevate your Smoked Pulled Pork experience by adding a drizzle of magic – Mike's Hot Honey. To savor the irresistible combination of smoky goodness and sweet heat, shop Mike's Hot Honey online
        If you prefer a hands-on experience, check out our retail partners through our store locator page. Take advantage of the secret sauce that will have everyone asking for your smoked pulled pork recipe. Buy now and let the flavor journey continue.

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