If you love the comforting, smoky-via-the-slow-cooker goodness of classic barbecue but want to give it a fresh, fruity twist, this Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe is going to be your new obsession. The tender pulled pork melds beautifully with the natural sweetness and subtle tang of peaches, creating a saucy, juicy, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even meal prep. This recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into an irresistible feast that captures both heartiness and a touch of summer sunshine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients might seem humble, but each plays an essential role in balancing the flavors and textures of this dish. From the succulent pork roast to the bright sweetness of fresh peaches and the aromatic punch of garlic and ginger, every element comes together to build layers of flavor and perfect tenderness.
- 5 pounds pork roast (boneless): The star of the show, providing hearty, shreddable meat perfect for soaking up the peachy sauce.
- 4 cups peaches (sliced & peeled): Fresh peaches add juicy sweetness and vibrant color to complement the smoky pork.
- 2/3 cup ketchup: Adds tang and richness, helping to thicken the sauce and balance the sweetness.
- 2/3 cup vinegar: Brings acidity to brighten and cut through the richness of the pulled pork.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of saltiness to the sauce blend.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Gives a caramel-like sweetness that amplifies the peaches’ natural sugars.
- 2 tablespoons garlic (minced): Provides savory aroma and depth to round out the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons ginger (fresh, grated or chopped): Adds warmth and a little zing that livens up the sauce.
- Buns: Soft buns are perfect for holding the juicy pulled pork.
- Coleslaw: Offers crunchy, creamy contrast to the tender pork and sweet sauce.
How to Make Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe
Step 1: Slow Cook the Pork Roast
Begin by placing your boneless pork roast directly into the slow cooker. Set it on low heat and let it cook gently for 5 hours. This slow, steady cooking breaks down the meat until it’s fall-apart tender and perfect for shredding. The long cook time ensures juicy, flavorful pork without any fuss.
Step 2: Shred the Meat
Once the pork has cooked through, carefully remove it from the cooker and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting step helps the juices redistribute for moist shredded pork. Then, using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized strands. Discard the cooking liquids to avoid watering down the sauce, and transfer the shredded meat back into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Blend the Peach Sauce
In a blender, combine the peeled and sliced peaches, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Blend all these ingredients until smooth and perfectly combined. Pour this luscious peach sauce over the shredded pork in the slow cooker, gently mixing to coat the meat thoroughly. Let it cook for an additional 1 to 2 hours on low, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to become thick and luscious.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
When your Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe is warm and bubbly, scoop generous portions onto soft buns and crown with creamy coleslaw. The combination of the savory, sweet pulled pork with crunchy coleslaw is heavenly. Or mix it up by tossing the pork into tortillas along with fresh veggies and a dollop of sour cream for a fun twist.
How to Serve Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes like fresh chopped cilantro, thinly sliced red onions, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add personality and crunch. A drizzle of spicy hot sauce or a squeeze of lime can also boost the flavors while balancing the sweetness of the peaches.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic coleslaw, tangy pickles, or a vibrant corn salad. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables work beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Shuffle things up by serving the pulled pork over fluffy rice, in soft tacos, or even using it as a topping for loaded nachos. It’s also an unbeatable filling for sliders during parties, making it both versatile and crowd-pleasing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pulled pork with peaches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 4 days, making it a great choice for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It keeps best up to 3 months, so you can enjoy that delicious fruity barbecue flavor any time you like.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen pulled pork overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep things moist and prevent the pork from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, canned peaches can be used if fresh ones aren’t available, but make sure to drain them well and adjust sugar accordingly, since canned peaches may be sweeter than fresh.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook the pork in a low oven (around 300°F) in a covered roasting pan for about 4 to 5 hours until tender, then follow the recipe steps for shredding and sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default. This Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe focuses on sweet and savory flavors, but you can add chili powder or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! The recipe makes a large batch that easily serves 12, and it scales well if you want to make more for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of buns?
Besides traditional sandwich buns, try serving the pork over rice, in tortillas, or even on top of a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
Final Thoughts
This Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe is a delightful blend of comforting and fresh, sweet and savory that feels both classic and new at the same time. It’s perfect for anyone who loves hearty meals with a fruit-forward twist and approachable ingredients you already know. Give it a try and watch how this dish becomes a favorite that you’ll happily make again and again.
Print
Pulled Pork with Peaches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Pulled Pork with Peaches recipe combines tender slow-cooked pork roast with a sweet and tangy peach-infused sauce. Perfectly shredded pork mixed with a flavorful peach-based glaze creates a unique twist on classic pulled pork. Serve it on buns with coleslaw or wrap it in tortillas for a tasty meal that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Pork and Base
- 5 pounds pork roast (boneless)
Peach Sauce
- 4 cups peaches (sliced & peeled)
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 2/3 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons ginger (fresh, grated or chopped)
To Serve
- Buns
- Coleslaw
Instructions
- Slow Cook the Pork: Place the boneless pork roast in the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the Meat: Remove the pork roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat finely. Discard the cooking liquids, then return the shredded pork to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Peach Sauce: In a blender, combine the sliced and peeled peaches, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Blend the mixture until smooth to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the blended peach sauce over the shredded pork in the slow cooker. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat evenly, then cook on low for an additional 1 to 2 hours, or until the mixture is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the pulled pork on buns topped with coleslaw for a classic dish. Alternatively, wrap it in tortillas with sour cream, lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a fresh and tasty variation.
Notes
- For best results, use a fattier cut of pork shoulder or butt for tender shredding.
- Peaches can be fresh or frozen, just ensure they are thawed before blending.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the peach sauce blend.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust vinegar and sugar quantities to suit your preferred balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
