Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps (Healthy & Crockpot!)

Pulled pork lettuce wraps are the perfect fusion of smoky, juicy meat and crisp, refreshing greens. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sliders or simply want a fun, hands-on meal that’s packed with flavor, these wraps deliver. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, the pork melts in your mouth, complemented by a medley of bold seasonings, tangy sauce, and crunchy toppings. It’s a dish that’s equally at home on a casual weeknight dinner table or as the star of a festive gathering. With every bite, you get a balance of texture and taste that’s nothing short of irresistible.

If you love meals that are effortless yet impressive, this recipe is for you. Pulled pork is a crowd-pleaser, and when wrapped in crisp lettuce, it becomes a lighter yet satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish is endlessly versatile—you can customize the flavors, toppings, and sauces to suit your preferences. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, making it ideal for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekends. With easy prep and an array of serving possibilities, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Pulled Pork:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

For the Wraps:

• 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine lettuce, leaves separated
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup thinly sliced red cabbage
• ½ cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup diced pineapple (optional, for a sweet twist)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ½ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for crunch)
• Sriracha or additional barbecue sauce for drizzling
• Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1:Prepare the Pork:

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub it evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.

Step 2:Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional):

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor depth of the final dish.

Step 3:Slow Cook the Pork:

Place the seared pork in a slow cooker. Pour in barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours) until the meat is fork-tender and shreds easily.

Step 4:Shred the Pork:

Remove the cooked pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large plate. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, tossing it in the flavorful sauce.

Step 5:Prepare the Lettuce Wraps:

While the pork is absorbing the sauce, carefully separate and rinse the lettuce leaves. Lay them out on a serving platter.

Step 6:Assemble the Wraps:

Spoon a generous portion of shredded pork onto each lettuce leaf. Top with shredded carrots, red cabbage, cucumber slices, diced pineapple, cilantro, and chopped peanuts. Drizzle with Sriracha or extra barbecue sauce.

Step 7:Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the wraps with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a bit of lime over each wrap before taking a bite for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips for the Best Pulled Pork Lettuce Wraps:

• Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (pork butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content and marbling, ensuring tender, juicy results.
• Let It Rest: After shredding, let the pork sit in its juices for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor absorption.
• Lettuce Matters: Butter lettuce provides soft, foldable leaves, while romaine offers a bit more crunch and structure.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pork before serving and add more barbecue sauce or a pinch of salt if needed.

Creative Variations:

• Korean-Inspired: Swap barbecue sauce for Korean gochujang sauce and top with kimchi and sesame seeds.
• Tropical Twist: Add diced mango and coconut flakes for a fruity, tropical flair.
• Mexican Fusion: Use chipotle sauce instead of barbecue and top with avocado and pickled red onions.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeño slices and a drizzle of spicy mayo for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair these wraps with a light side dish like a cucumber salad, grilled corn, or coleslaw.
• Serve with a refreshing drink such as a citrusy lemonade or iced tea.
• Arrange them as a DIY lettuce wrap station at parties for interactive dining.

Storage Tips:

• Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the pulled pork in portions for up to 3 months.
• Lettuce leaves should be stored separately, wrapped in a damp paper towel in a resealable bag to keep them crisp.

The Bottom Line

Pulled pork lettuce wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy all the smoky, saucy goodness of pulled pork in a fresh, handheld format. Whether you’re making them for a quick meal or serving them at a party, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today and discover just how satisfying and flavorful these wraps can be!

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