Spiced Cider Pulled Pork Sliders

Spiced cider pulled pork sliders are my answer to crowd-pleasing party food Slow-cooked pork melts into tenderness tangy apple cider layers in autumn warmth and fragrant spices perfume your whole kitchen Each slider disappears in a flash at gatherings or family meals especially when I serve these with a crunchy slaw and a drizzle of smoky barbecue sauce

When I first made these for a backyard birthday everyone hovered in the kitchen waiting for the pork to finish Now every fall and winter even picky eaters request them by name

Ingredients

• Boneless pork shoulder: This cut stays juicy and shreds perfectly after slow cooking Look for a good balance of fat and meat for the most flavor
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and developing rich flavor Use the freshest cracked pepper you can
• Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel sweetness that works so well with spices Choose dark brown for even more depth
• Smoked paprika: Brings gentle smokiness Opt for authentic Spanish smoked paprika when possible
• Ground cinnamon Ground cloves Ground allspice: Together these spices create sweet warmth that complements the cider Freshness matters so check your spice jars for potency
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Essential pantry seasonings that build a savory base Go for granulated rather than ultra-fine to avoid clumping
• Apple cider: The star flavor Use a good-quality fresh cider for the best taste in your pulled pork
• Apple cider vinegar: Lifts flavors and balances sweetness Go for raw unfiltered if possible
• Dijon mustard: Sharpness from mustard cuts through the richness and balances the pork Seek out smooth stone-ground Dijon for best flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth Look for brands with real anchovy and natural flavors
• Slider buns: Soft and just the right size for party servings Check for fresh bakery rolls if you want to impress
• Coleslaw mix: Optional but refreshing Adds a cool crunch to the sliders Choose a mix with red cabbage for great color
• Barbecue sauce: Also optional for sweet and smoky finishing Drizzle a little of your favorite or try a homemade sauce with extra cider

Instructions

Mix the Spice Rub:

In a small bowl combine brown sugar smoked paprika ground cinnamon ground cloves ground allspice garlic powder and onion powder Stir thoroughly until completely blended breaking up any sugary clumps This creates an aromatic blend you will use very soon

Prepare and Season the Pork:

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels trimming any excess fat Season all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the base layer Rub the entire pork generously with your mixed spice rub pressing it into every nook and cranny Let this sit while you prepare the cooker so the flavors absorb

Set Up the Cooking Liquid:

Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker Pour apple cider apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce around the meat not directly over the top This keeps the spice coating intact and infuses the meat from below

Slow Cook Until Tender:

Cover and cook on the low setting for six hours Resist peeking too often Each hour the pork grows more tender soaking up the spiced cider Perfume from the spices should fill your kitchen as the pork transforms

Shred and Mix:

When the pork pulls apart easily with two forks remove it carefully to a cutting board Shred the meat using two forks discarding any large fatty pieces Return shredded pork to the slow cooker Skim excess fat from the remaining liquid Stir the meat back into the juices to soak up every drop of flavor

Assemble the Sliders:

Split slider buns and pile each with a generous mound of pulled pork Top with coleslaw and a drizzle of barbecue sauce if desired Serve the sliders warm so the buns are soft and the flavors meld beautifully

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My kitchen smells like spicy apple magic every time I make this The balance of sweet spice and tangy vinegar is why I never tire of this dish Sliding hot pork onto pillowy buns with cool slaw was a Sunday ritual growing up and a tradition I still keep

Storage Tips

Store leftover pulled pork tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days It reheats gently in a saucepan or the microwave with a splash of cider to keep it moist For longer storage portion the pork into small containers and freeze for up to three months

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use pork loin in place of shoulder for a leaner version though it may be slightly less juicy Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos for a soy free twist Or swap out the slider buns for lettuce wraps to make this low carb

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sliders buffet style so guests can build their own Offer extra coleslaw and barbecue sauce on the side Consider pairing with roasted sweet potato wedges or a bright apple fennel salad for a full meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Pulled pork is a classic American comfort food but the spiced cider twist nods to autumn harvest traditions Apple cider was historically a celebratory drink for cooler weather and here it adds that orchard aroma right into your main dish

Seasonal Adaptations

Try using pear cider or adding diced fresh apples to the slow cooker in the fall For a summer feel swap half the cider for pineapple juice or add fresh herbs like thyme when serving

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Friends always rave about these sliders at football parties and family reunions They disappear even faster when I set out different buns and homemade pickles My niece now asks for this recipe every birthday

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of pork is best for this dish?

Boneless pork shoulder works best due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

→ Can I use store-bought coleslaw topping?

Yes, pre-made coleslaw mix is an easy and tasty addition for crunch and freshness.

→ How do I make the pork spicier?

Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the spice rub for extra heat.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

The pulled pork can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated when ready to serve.

→ What is a good beverage pairing?

Try these sliders with crisp hard cider or a light lager for complementary flavors.

→ Are there dietary considerations to note?

Slider buns contain wheat, and the cooking liquids may contain mustard and soy. Check all ingredients for allergens.