Here’s a Pulled Meat Sandwich with Rich Sauce recipe that’s perfect for a hearty, comforting meal. You can use pork, beef, or chicken — I’ll give options for each.
🍖 Pulled Meat Sandwich with Rich Sauce
🕒 Total Time: 3.5 to 8 hours (depending on method)
🍽 Serves: 4-6 sandwiches
🧂 Ingredients:
For the Pulled Meat:
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2–3 lbs of meat (choose one):
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Pork shoulder (classic)
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Beef chuck roast (richer flavor)
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Chicken thighs (faster cook time)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup beef or chicken broth
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp chili powder
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Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Rich Sauce:
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1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
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1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1/2 tsp cayenne or hot sauce (optional for heat)
For Serving:
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Soft sandwich buns or brioche rolls
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Coleslaw (optional, but recommended)
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Pickles or jalapeños (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
1. Sear the Meat (Optional but adds flavor)
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Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven.
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Season the meat with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
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Sear on all sides until browned (2–3 mins per side).
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Transfer to slow cooker or pressure cooker.
2. Slow Cook or Pressure Cook
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Add sliced onions, garlic, and broth to the pot.
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Cover and cook:
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Slow Cooker: 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH.
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Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: 60–75 minutes on HIGH pressure, then natural release.
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3. Shred the Meat
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Remove the meat and shred it using two forks.
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Skim fat from cooking liquid (optional).
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Return shredded meat to the pot.
4. Make the Rich Sauce
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In a saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, vinegar, and cayenne.
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Simmer over medium heat for 5–10 minutes, until thickened.
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Pour the sauce over the shredded meat and stir well.
5. Assemble Sandwiches
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Toast buns if desired.
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Pile the rich, saucy pulled meat onto each bun.
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Top with coleslaw or pickles for crunch and acidity.
🍴 Tips:
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Make ahead: Meat can be made a day in advance. Flavor improves overnight!
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Freeze it: Pulled meat freezes well for up to 3 months.
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Add cheese: Melted provolone or cheddar adds extra indulgence.