Can I cook this on High instead of Low?

Yes, you can cook on High for approximately 5 hours. However, cooking on Low for 8 hours will give you more tender, juicier results with better flavour development. The longer, slower cooking allows the connective tissue to break down more gradually

What if my pork isn't falling apart easily at the end?

If the pork isn't tender enough, continue cooking on Low in 30-minute increments until it shreds easily. Different cuts and sizes may require slightly different cooking times. Always check the internal temperature — it should reach at least 90°C for safe pulled pork

Can I make the chipotle mayo ahead?

You can make it up to 2 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. However, for the best fresh flavour and to prevent separation, it's ideal to make it just before serving. Store any leftover mayo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

What should I do with the cooking liquid?

Skim any fat from the surface and reserve the stock. You can use it to moisten the pulled pork if it seems dry, or save it to use as a base for soups and stews. It will have wonderful smoky, savoury flavour from the pork

Gordon Ramsay's Ultimate Pulled Pork

by Vintage TV Club

Pork

Published 30 April 2026Original video

This is Gordon Ramsay's take on the ultimate pulled pork — a showstopping dish packed with smoky and spicy flavours that will impress any dinner table. Tender pulled pork is complemented by a zesty chipotle mayo, creating a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Ideal for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker adaptation transforms the traditional cooking method into an even more convenient kitchen routine. The result is incredibly moist, flavour-packed pork that shreds effortlessly and begs to be served on brioche buns with coleslaw

Video thumbnail: Gordon Ramsay's Ultimate Pulled Pork

Watch: Gordon Ramsay's Ultimate Pulled Pork

Original recipe video — click to play

Original video by Vintage TV Club11k likes on YouTube

15 mins

Prep time

8 hrs

Slow cook (Low)

5 hrs

Slow cook (High)

Serves

8 hrs 15 mins

Total (Low)

Slow cooker setting:Low 8 hours or High 5 hours

Original method: Not specified in source material

Ingredients

Servings:

Units:

For the Pulled Pork

2 ½ kg pork shoulder, skin scored
Choose a good quality pork shoulder with fat marbling for best results
15 ml smoked paprika
Provides the signature smoky flavour
8 ml ground chipotle pepper
Adds heat and depth; adjust to taste
10 ml salt
5 ml black pepper, freshly ground
250 ml beef or chicken stock
Use low-sodium stock to control seasoning

For the Chipotle Mayo

200 ml mayonnaise
Make and add just before serving
Use quality mayonnaise for best flavour
45 ml chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
Add to mayo just before serving
15 ml lime juice, freshly squeezed
Add to mayo just before serving

To Serve

12 brioche buns
Toast lightly before serving
400 g coleslaw(optional)
Serve alongside
Homemade or shop-bought

Method

1
Pat the pork shoulder dry with kitchen paper and score the skin in a crosshatch pattern. Season all over with smoked paprika, ground chipotle pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
~5 mins
Tip: Scoring the skin allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat
2
Heat a large, heavy-based pan over high heat. Once smoking hot, place the pork shoulder skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Turn and sear the remaining sides for 2 minutes each.
~10 mins
Tip: This step develops flavour and caramelisation; do not skip
3
Transfer the seared pork to your slow cooker. Pour the stock around (not over) the meat.
~5 mins
Tip: Keep the skin exposed to the dry heat of the slow cooker for crispness
4
Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 5 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and pulls apart easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 90°C.
~8 hrs
Tip: Low cooking is recommended for the most tender, juicy results
5
Remove the pork from the slow cooker and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Using two forks or shredding claws, pull the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin or reserve for crackling if desired.
~10 mins
Tip: The meat should shred very easily when properly cooked
6
Make the chipotle mayo: whisk together the mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers, and fresh lime juice until well combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
~5 mins
Tip: Do this just before serving for the freshest flavour
7
Lightly toast the brioche buns. Generously spread chipotle mayo on each bun and pile in the hot pulled pork. Serve with coleslaw on the side.
~5 mins
Tip: Work quickly so the pork stays warm whilst assembling

Nutrition

Detailed nutritional information is coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

: Yes, you can cook on High for approximately 5 hours. However, cooking on Low for 8 hours will give you more tender, juicier results with better flavour development. The longer, slower cooking allows the connective tissue to break down more gradually

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