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Root Beer Pulled Pork in the Ninja

This root beer pulled pork uses a Ninja multi-cooker to sear and slow cook a seasoned pork butt in root beer, then finishes in BBQ sauce and brown sugar for a rich, tender pulled pork perfect for sliders.
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 pork butt or pork shoulder 5 to 8 lbs
  • Lanyap Brand seasoning or Holy Gospel BBQ seasoning blend enough to coat the entire outside generously
  • 1 cup root beer homemade or store-bought
  • 1 bottle Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce any flavor (Honey Brown Sugar works great)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • Hawaiian rolls for serving
  • Coleslaw for topping

Method
 

  1. Season the entire outside of the pork butt generously with the Lanyap or Holy Gospel seasoning blend, pressing it into every surface.
  2. Using the Sear/Sauté setting on the Ninja, sear each side of the pork until browned and golden, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  3. Add the root beer. Cover and switch to Slow Cook mode. Cook for 5 to 7 hours until the pork is completely tender and falling apart.
  4. Remove the pork and shred with two forks or meat claws. Return the shredded pork to the pot.
  5. Add the BBQ sauce and brown sugar and stir to combine. Simmer on the Sear/Sauté setting for about 30 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pork.
  6. Pile onto Hawaiian rolls and top with fresh coleslaw.

Notes

Don't skip the sear. The browned crust on the outside of the pork adds a depth of flavor to the finished pulled pork that slow cooking alone cannot produce.
The root beer adds a subtle sweetness and caramel note that pairs naturally with the BBQ sauce and brown sugar in the finishing simmer.
The 30-minute simmer after shredding is the step that turns good pulled pork into great pulled pork. Let the sauce reduce and coat everything fully.
Honey Brown Sugar Sweet Baby Ray's is the recommended flavor but any variety works. The brown sugar added separately deepens the sweetness and helps the sauce thicken.