Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich

This Hawaiian pulled pork sandwich brings together slow-cooked pork infused with sweet and tangy flavors nestled inside a soft brioche bun. The juicy meat pairs beautifully with grilled pineapple rings adding a tropical sweetness that brightens every bite.

I first made this for a weekend cookout and now it’s a family favorite everyone requests

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder roast: brings rich flavor and tender texture when slow-cooked Choose a well-marbled cut for best results
• Pork sauce: made from ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, paprika, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, pineapple juice, salt, and pepper balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes
• Soft brioche buns: provide a slightly sweet and buttery base Toasting them adds a pleasant crunch and prevents sogginess
• Grilled pineapple rings: add juicy smoky sweetness that complements the pork perfectly
• Coleslaw: offers a cool, crunchy contrast Use your preferred style or deli-prepared slaw for convenience
• Barbecue sauce: enhances flavor Add your favorite brand or homemade sauce for an extra kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pork:

Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch pieces then transfer them to the slow cooker

Mix and Add Sauce:

In a bowl combine chopped onion ketchup apple cider vinegar brown sugar tomato paste paprika red pepper flakes Worcestershire sauce pineapple juice salt and pepper Pour this sauce over the pork in the slow cooker

Slow Cook the Pork:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours until the pork is very tender and falls apart easily

Shred the Meat:

Using two forks shred the pork while still in the slow cooker allowing it to soak up the cooking juices

Prepare Toppings:

Grill or sear pineapple rings until lightly caramelized Toast the brioche buns to add texture and prevent sogginess

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Place shredded pork on the bottom bun then layer grilled pineapple coleslaw and barbecue sauce if desired Finish with the top bun and serve immediately

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You Must Know

• Slow cooking the pork shoulder breaks down connective tissue creating melt-in-your-mouth tenderness
• Pineapple juice in the sauce acts as a natural tenderizer and adds tropical sweetness
• Toasting the buns is key to keeping sandwiches from becoming soggy under the juicy pork and toppings
• This dish is perfect for sharing at casual gatherings or family dinners

I love how the grilled pineapple elevates the sandwich giving it a unique and memorable flavor

Storage Tips

Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Keep buns pineapple and coleslaw separate to maintain freshness

Freeze cooled pork in portioned freezer-safe bags removing excess air for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals stirring between until warmed through

Ingredient Substitutions

Try mango or guava slices instead of pineapple for a different tropical twist

Swap brioche buns with Hawaiian sweet rolls pretzel buns or even sturdy sandwich rolls

Use your favorite barbecue sauce style from smoky to spicy to customize the flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fries coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a complete meal

Pulled pork also works great as a filling for tacos nachos or served over steamed rice

Pro Tips

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Commonly Asked Questions

→ What cut of pork is best for pulled pork sandwiches?

Pork shoulder or pork butt are the best cuts, thanks to their marbling and connective tissue that break down beautifully during slow cooking.

→ How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Lightly toasting the brioche buns helps create a barrier against moisture and keeps the sandwich from becoming soggy.

→ Can I make the pulled pork ahead of time?

Yes, the pulled pork can be made ahead and refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What can I use instead of pineapple rings?

You can substitute with other tropical fruits like mango or guava for a similar sweet and juicy flavor.

→ Is it possible to cook the pork without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can braise the pork in a covered Dutch oven at a low oven temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for similar results.