Ingredients
– 4 pounds pork shoulder or butt The star of the show, providing juicy, tender meat when cooked low and slow
– 2 tablespoons oil optional for searing Helps create a nice crust if you choose to sear the pork first
– 1 tablespoon salt Brings out the natural flavors of the meat
– 1 tablespoon pepper Adds a subtle kick and enhances seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a savory depth into the pork
– 1 teaspoon onion powder Complements the garlic with a mild, aromatic touch
– 1 teaspoon paprika Gives a warm, smoky note to the rub
– 1 teaspoon chili powder Brings in a hint of heat and complexity
– 12 ounces cola soda Acts as a tenderizer and adds sweetness during cooking
– Barbecue sauce optional Mix in after shredding for extra tang, if desired
Instructions
1-Begin by trimming excess fat from the 4 pounds of pork shoulder or butt and cutting it into 4 even pieces for better cooking.
2-Mix together 1 tablespoon each of salt and pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.
3-Apply the spice rub evenly over the pork pieces; for deeper flavor, do this the night before and let it sit in the fridge.
4-Optionally, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the pork for a few seconds on each side to add a nice crust.
5-Preheat your oven to 300°F (about 150°C). Place the pork in a Dutch oven, pour 12 ounces of cola soda around the meat, cover, and cook for 3 hours.
6-Remove the lid and cook uncovered for 1 to 2 more hours until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥤 Use regular cola for natural sweetness and tenderization; avoid diet soda.
🍎 Substitute with root beer or a mix of ½ cup apple cider vinegar and 1 cup apple juice if preferred.
💡 Store leftovers airtight in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 3-5 hours
- Cook Time: 3-5 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow cooking, baking, pressure cooking, searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 ounces
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 554 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 124 mg