High-Protein Slow-Cooker Pulled Pork
Looking for a delicious, full-of-protein meal? This BBQ pulled pork is a tasty option that fits perfectly into your Ideal Protein diet. Made with tender pork tenderloin and slow-cooked to perfection, this barbecue pulled pork is enjoyable and easy to prepare. You can serve this dish for lunch, dinner, or a gathering; it offers the perfect combination of taste and nutrition. Plus, it’s ideal for all Ideal Protein phases, so you can enjoy the best pulled pork recipe without straying from your diet goals.
Pulled pork is a protein-rich food, and a four-ounce serving of this pork tenderloin recipe provides an estimated 30 grams of protein. This version uses sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep the carbohydrate content lower than traditional sweet BBQ pulled pork.
Pork tenderloin is generally leaner than pork shoulder, although it can become dry if overcooked. Check the meat toward the lower end of the cooking range and shred it as soon as it is tender.
The slow cooker does most of the work, making this recipe especially useful for meal prep or busy weekdays. Serve the pulled pork in lettuce wraps, over approved vegetables or alongside Greek yogurt coleslaw for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Perfect Pairings for Pulled Pork
BBQ pulled pork roast pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. For a light, healthy option, serve it with a fresh radish salad, Mediterranean cauliflower salad, or pickled slaw. If you’re looking for something heartier, try pairing it with buffalo eggplant fries. Leftover BBQ pulled pork can also be used in lettuce wraps or on top of noodles for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
Pulled Pork and Ideal Protein Diet
This Ideal Protein pulled pork dinner recipe is perfect for all phases of the diet. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut, making it an excellent source of high-quality protein, and when paired with a sugar-free BBQ sauce like Walden Farms, it remains low in carbs and fits within your daily macros. Whether in Phase 1 or Phase 3, you can enjoy this pulled pork protein dish without worrying about your progress.
Estimated Nutrition
190 calories, 30g protein, 2g carbohydrates, 5g fat
Ingredients
- 2 lb. pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup of pork rub
- 1/4 cup of Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 8 tbsp. Walden Farms BBQ sauce (or as per your flavor)
Preparation
Step 1
Generously rub the pork tenderloin with your favorite pork rub blend, ensuring it’s evenly covered with seasoning for the best flavor.
Step 2
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Add the apple cider vinegar and water to keep the pork moist and tender during cooking.
Step 3
Cover the slow cooker and cook the pork on low heat for 8-10 hours. The slow, gentle heat will make the pork fall-apart tender, ideal for shredding.
Step 4
Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the meat. The pork should be easy to pull apart into fine pieces.
Step 5
Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix in the Walden Farms BBQ sauce (or your preferred sugar-free BBQ sauce). Let the pork heat through for a few more minutes to absorb the sauce.
Step 6
Serve your pulled pork with your favorite Ideal Protein-approved vegetables or a side salad, and enjoy a delicious, protein-rich meal!
FAQs
What to have with pulled pork?
There are many pulled pork ideas because this dish pairs well with many side dishes, such as coleslaw, eggplant fries, or a simple Mediterranean or radish salad. You can also use it in lettuce wraps or pair it with cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
How long does it take to cook pulled pork?
This pulled pork recipe takes 8-10 hours to cook on low heat in a slow cooker, ensuring the meat becomes tender and easy to shred.
What do you use for pulled pork?
The best cut for pulled pork is pork tenderloin, which is a leaner option, or pork shoulder, which has a richer flavor. You’ll also need a good pork rub, apple cider vinegar, water, and a sugar-free BBQ sauce for pulled pork.
How long does pulled pork take on BBQ?
If cooking pulled pork on a BBQ, it usually takes about 5-6 hours at a low temperature (around 225°F), depending on the size of the pork cut and the method used.
FAQs
Does pulled pork have protein?
Yes. Pork is naturally rich in protein.
How much protein is in pulled pork?
This tenderloin-based recipe provides approximately 30 grams per four-ounce serving.
Is this pulled pork low in carbohydrates?
It can be, provided the pork rub and barbecue sauce contain little or no added sugar.
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