How to Pull Pork the Right Way
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You can smoke and rest a pork butt perfectly, but pulling it the wrong way can ruin texture and moisture.
Pulling pork is simple, but there is a right way to do it.
If you have not rested the meat yet, read my guide on how to rest a pork butt properly.
When Should You Pull Pork?
Pull pork while it is still warm.
Ideal internal temperature when pulling:
Between 150 and 170 degrees.
If it cools too much, the fat begins to firm up and pulling becomes harder.
If you are unsure when it is finished cooking, read my guide on how to know when pork butt is done.
Remove the Bone First
If cooking bone in pork butt:
- Twist the bone gently
- It should slide out clean
- Discard it before shredding
If the bone resists, the pork likely needed more cooking time.
Best Tools for Pulling Pork
You do not need fancy equipment.
Common options:
- Two forks
- Heat resistant gloves
- Meat claws
Gloves are often easiest because you can feel texture and remove unwanted fat more precisely.
How to Pull for the Best Texture
Do not shred into tiny strands unless you prefer that style.
Instead:
- Break into natural muscle sections
- Pull into medium strands
- Remove large chunks of excess fat
- Leave small bits of bark mixed in
Mixing bark evenly throughout gives better flavor and texture.
Should You Chop or Shred?
Traditional pulled pork is shredded by hand.
Chopping:
- Creates more uniform texture
- Blends bark thoroughly
- Works well for sandwiches
Shredding:
- Keeps longer strands
- Preserves texture contrast
- Feels more rustic
Choose based on preference.
Add Back the Juices
If you wrapped in foil, you likely have collected juices.
Do not discard them.
After pulling:
- Pour juices over the meat
- Mix gently
- Adjust salt if needed
This dramatically improves moisture and flavor.
If you wrapped during the stall, read my guide on wrapping pork butt for technique details.
When to Add Sauce
Add sauce after pulling, not before.
You have three options:
- Serve plain and let guests sauce individually
- Lightly toss with a small amount
- Mix half and serve half plain
For sauce ideas, read my guide on the best sauce for pulled pork.
Keep It Warm for Serving
To hold pulled pork:
- Place in a covered pan
- Keep above 140 degrees
- Stir occasionally
- Add reserved juices if drying
Pulled pork holds well for gatherings if managed properly.
If you are planning for a crowd, read my guide on how much pork butt per person.
Final Thoughts
Pulling pork is not complicated, but details matter.
Pull while warm. Keep some bark mixed in. Add back the juices. Avoid over shredding.
Done correctly, the texture will be tender, juicy, and balanced.
Next step: learn how much pork butt you need for your next cook.
