Low Sodium Pulled Pork Barbecue Sandwich

Savor the rich, smoky flavors of this Low Sodium Pulled Pork Barbecue Sandwich, a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Perfectly seasoned with a bold blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne peppers, the tender pork shoulder is slow-cooked to perfection in a tangy, sweet sauce made with apple cider vinegar, honey, and low-sodium chicken broth. Served on hearty whole wheat buns and optionally topped with crisp, vibrant coleslaw, this sandwich strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. With minimal prep time and a set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker approach, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy all the barbecue flavor you crave—without the excess sodium!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:480 mins

Total Time:500 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 0.5 cup honey
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 6 pieces Whole wheat hamburger buns
• 2 cups coleslaw (optional, low sodium if using pre-made)

Directions

Step 1

Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder.

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3

Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 4

Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, low sodium chicken broth, and tomato paste until smooth.

Step 6

Pour the liquid mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.

Step 7

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 8

Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Step 9

Return shredded pork to the slow cooker, allowing it to absorb the juices for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Step 10

Toast whole wheat hamburger buns if desired.

Step 11

Assemble the sandwiches by placing a generous amount of pulled pork on each bun.

Step 12

Top with coleslaw if desired for added crunch and flavor.

Step 13

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3064.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5751.2

Total Fat 334.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 106.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 976.3mg	0%
Sodium 3860.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 390.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 48.1g	0%
Total Sugars 193.3g
Protein 293.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1114.8mg	0%
Iron 40.3mg	0%
Potassium 7664.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.4%

Protein: 20.4%

Carbs: 27.1%