Ninja Grill BBQ Pulled Pork

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork, perfectly seasoned and bursting with smoky BBQ flavors, all effortlessly cooked to perfection on your Ninja Grill.

This mouthwatering recipe will become the star of your cookouts and family dinners, leaving everyone craving more.

From my experience, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Preparation Time:

Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 5 hours
Suitable for: 6-8 people
Difficulty: Medium

The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

Pork Shoulder: 4 pounds, boneless
BBQ Sauce: 1 cup, your favorite brand or homemade
Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup
Paprika: 2 tablespoons
Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon
Onion Powder: 1 tablespoon
Salt: 2 teaspoons
Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
Apple Cider Vinegar: 1/4 cup
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)

This recipe shines in its versatility, allowing for different cooking methods to suit your kitchen setup.

1. Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the meat.
2. Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the Pork: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring an even coating.
4. Preheat the Ninja Grill: Set the Ninja Grill to ‘Slow Cook’ mode on high and allow it to preheat.
5. Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the Ninja Grill. Add apple cider vinegar and chicken broth to the bottom of the grill pan.
6. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
7. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and shred it using two forks.
8. Mix with BBQ Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the shredded pork with BBQ sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
9. Serve: Serve the BBQ pulled pork on buns, in tacos, or as a topping for nachos.

Nutritional Benefits

BBQ pulled pork is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits.

• Protein-Packed: Pork shoulder is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins: Pork contains B vitamins like B6 and B12, which are vital for energy production and brain health.
• Mineral-Rich: This dish provides important minerals such as zinc and iron, supporting immune function and oxygen transport.
• Healthy Fats: Contains healthy fats that help in maintaining energy levels and promoting cell health.
• Low in Carbs: Ideal for low-carb and keto diets when served without bread or sugary sauces.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

Elevate this recipe with these delicious enhancements:

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the rub for extra heat.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smoky taste.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the rub for added flavor complexity.
• Sweet Twist: Incorporate honey or maple syrup into the BBQ sauce for a sweet contrast.
• Tangy Touch: Add extra apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice for a tangier BBQ sauce.

Questions and Answers

Can we use a different cut of pork?
Yes, pork butt or pork loin can be used, though cooking times may vary.

Is there a vegan version?
Use jackfruit instead of pork and vegan BBQ sauce for a delicious plant-based alternative.

Can we cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, including the BBQ sauce, are gluten-free.

How do we store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can we add liquid smoke?
Yes, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the broth for a smokier flavor.

How do we prevent the pork from drying out?
Keep the pork well-moistened with broth and vinegar during cooking.

Can we use a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Is there a sugar-free version?
Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and omit the brown sugar for a lower sugar option.

How do we make it spicier?
Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the rub and sauce.

From my experience, BBQ pulled pork made on the Ninja Grill is a game-changer, perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. Share this recipe on social networks and spread the deliciousness to friends and family. Enjoy the savory, smoky flavors and happy grilling!