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Pulled Pork

Tender and flavorful pulled pork made in the glass Anyday dish using a lower power level for the best texture. This quick and easy microwave recipe features succulent pork cooked with a savory blend of spices, delivering delicious and juicy pulled pork perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main dish.
PT5M PT1 hour 45M

Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time

1 hour 45 mins

Free Time

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Pulled Pork

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The magic ingredient to make this juicy pulled pork is simple: time. Gently microwaving pork for nearly two hours might seem like forever, but the result is unbelievably fork-tender pork that pulls apart to the touch. Plus, that's a fraction of the time that the oven or slow cooker takes.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Pairs well with

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

2-4
  • 2-4
  • 4-6
✕

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

700w
  • 700w
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  • 1000w
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Dish

The Large Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cumin powder
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne powder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ cup (160ml) water or chicken stock
  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless pork butt or shoulder, cut into large chunks to fit
  • Barbecue sauce, to serve

Preparation

  1. Mix all the dry ingredients until well incorporated. Rub the pork with the dry seasoning, then transfer to the Anyday dish. Add the cider vinegar and water or stock, and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 5
    ✕

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

    [[video-power]]

    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

     for 1 hour. 
  3. Flip the meat, cover, and continue cooking at Power Level 5 for 45 minutes, or until the meat is tender and shreds easily.
  4. Transfer the pork to a cooling rack with a tray underneath to catch juices.
  5. Pull the meat apart with 2 forks and transfer to a bowl. If desired, you can remove some of the fat from the pork meat.
  6. Toss shredded pork in enough barbecue sauce to coat, and season with leftover juices to your liking. Serve pork on buns or by itself.

Suggestions

  • Add smoky flavor: Stir in chipotle sauce to give the dish a smoky, spicy touch that enhances the rich pork flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning: For a milder pulled pork, reduce or omit the spices to suit your preference while still enjoying the tender texture.
  • Sweeten it up: Substitute vinegar with Coca-Cola for a sweeter, tangy pulled pork with a hint of caramel flavor.
  • Adjust for your microwave: Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for perfect results.

Recipe Notes

  • Pork but or shoulder works well for the recipe.
  • Power level reduction is crucial for the desired texture and doneness. reducing the power will ensure the tough muscle has time to tenderize.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making Pulled Pork in the Microwave

What is pulled pork?

The classic version of pulled pork refers to a shredded, slow-cooked pork shoulder. It's seasoned with flavorful spices, or stewed in barbecue sauce. It's a flavorful, versatile protein that's perfect for sandwiches or tacos.

Can I make pulled pork in the microwave?

Absolutely! With an Anyday dish, you can make tender, juicy pulled pork in about half the time it takes to cook in the oven. Use the silicone-rimmed lid to trap moisture inside of the dish while it cooks in the microwave. You'll also reduce the power level, allowing the pork to cook to moist, tender perfection.

Why should I use an Anyday dish for pulled pork?

The Anyday dish is designed to lock in steam (and moisture!), which helps tenderize the pork as it cooks. The steam-regulating knob ensures even cooking and prevents the meat from drying out. The result? Moist, flavorful pulled pork with minimal effort.

How do I know when the pulled pork is done?

Pulled pork is ready when it’s tender enough to shred with a fork. If it’s still tough, add time in 5-10 minute increments (at the same power level) for the desired result.

Do I need to reduce the power level for cooking pulled pork?

Yes, reducing the power level is essential in this recipe. This method cooks the pork gently and evenly without overcooking the outside.

How long can I store leftover pulled pork?

Store leftover pulled pork in an Anyday dish with the lid on in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

What’s the best way to reheat pulled pork?

To reheat pulled pork, place it in an Anyday dish, cover with the lid, and microwave on full power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Can I use pulled pork for other dishes besides sandwiches?

Yes! Pulled pork is for more than just a sandwich. It's great in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and loaded baked potatoes. You can also use it as a topping for salads and pizzas. For a hearty meal, pair with rice and vegetables.

Why is the cooking time for pulled pork in the microwave so long?

Pulled pork requires extended cooking time because it cooks at a low power level. While it takes 2 hours in the microwave, this cook time is much faster compared to other methods. Pulled pork can take up to 4-8 hours in an oven, slow cooker, or smoker.

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