Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Pulled Pork

This recipe is simple, but it calls for a long list of ingredients. I recommend starting by gathering everything you will need in one place.

Slice the red onion from pole to pole. I favor this longitudinal cutting technique for stews and braises

How to Slice An Onion Longitudinally

There are a ton of ways to cut an onion. Over time, you tend to favor different cuts for different dishes. I favor longitudinal slices for stews and braises because they provide a little more texture than slicing at latitude. The difference is subtle, but I think it's worth looking at.

Pulverize those cloves however you like. We plan to cook this to oblivion, so the garlic should disappear into the mass however you handle it.

How to Crush Garlic

Basic cooking techniques

In a big skillet over medium heat, brown the pork shoulder on all sides. I used a big nonstick, so the pork itself gave up enough fat that oil wasn't necessary, but you may need a little.

Move the pork shoulder over into the instant pot. But you still need that pan.

Sautée the onions in the same pan over medium low. Might as well put that pork fat to good use.

Transfer the onion into the pot once it's tender.

Close up the instant pot and cook. You can use the pressure cooker meat setting and it should be ready in less than an hour. Alternatively, slow cook for about 4 hours or until everything is super tender, falling apart easily.