How to Reheat Pulled Pork to Perfection in the Instant Pot

Pulled pork is a classic favorite that can be used in so many delicious ways. Slathered on sandwiches or tacos, added to soups and salads, or enjoyed on its own – who doesn’t love tender, juicy pulled pork? But while freshly cooked pulled pork is mouthwatering, leftovers that are carelessly reheated often end up dry and stringy Fortunately, using your Instant Pot is an easy, foolproof way to reheat pulled pork so it remains moist, fall-apart tender and full of flavor.

In this guide, I’ll explain how to reheat both large and small portions of pulled pork in the Instant Pot With just the press of a button, you can revive leftover pork to be as delicious as the day you first cooked it No more sad dried-out pork! Read on to learn the tips, benefits, and step-by-step instructions for perfectly reheated pulled pork every time.

Why Reheat Pulled Pork in the Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function provides gentle, moist heat that keeps reheated pork tender. Other reheating methods like the microwave or oven can overly dry out the pork, destroying the delicate texture.

Here are the main benefits of using your Instant Pot to reheat pulled pork:

• Maintains tenderness – Pressure keeps moisture in.
• Restores juiciness – No drying out like the microwave.
• Infuses flavor – Absorbs seasoning and sauce notes.
• Minimal effort – Just press a button and walk away.
• Hands-off – No need to stir or monitor like the stovetop.
• Versatile – Cooks both large and small batches.
• Safe for leftovers – Thoroughly reheats to safe temperature.

For the juiciest, most flavorful pulled pork every time, the Instant Pot is clearly the reheating method of choice.

Tips for Reheating Pulled Pork in the Instant Pot

Follow these tips when reheating your leftover pulled pork the Instant Pot way:

• Separate – If keeping pork in sauce, divide into smaller shallow containers so it reheats quickly.
• Moisten – Add a splash of water or broth if pork seems dry.
• Vent – Leave pulled pork uncovered in dish to allow steam to escape.
• Pot-in-Pot – Elevate smaller amounts in a bowl on a trivet over water.
• Steam – Use steam function, not pressure cook, for gentle even heating.
• Quick Release – Vent pressure immediately after the steam countdown.
• Check Doneness – Pork should be piping hot throughout after steaming.
• Avoid Overheating – Reheated pork can dry out if steamed too long.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are the detailed steps for perfectly reheating both large and smaller portions of pulled pork in your Instant Pot:

For Large Portions Still in Juices

If you have a large portion of pulled pork leftovers still submerged in its juices:

1. Transfer pork and all juices into the Instant Pot insert pot.
2. Seal lid and press the Steam function, programming 0 minutes cook time.
3. Allow pressure to build then quick release immediately once pressurized.
4. Carefully open lid, stir pork, and check internal temperature is above 165°F.

The quick 0 minute steam lets the Instant Pot come up to high pressure to quickly reheat the pork without overcooking it.

For Smaller Portions or Pork Alone

For smaller amounts of pulled pork or pork that’s no longer sitting in liquid:

1. Place pork in a shallow heat-safe dish. Add a splash of water or sauce if very dry.
2. Add 1 cup water to Instant Pot inner pot. Insert trivet.
3. Place dish with pork on trivet. Lock lid.
4. Select Steam function and set time for 5 minutes.
5. Quick or natural release. Check temperature.

The steam gently surrounds the pork, heating it through without drying it out or cooking it further. Add an extra minute or two of steam if needed.

Tips for Freezing and Thawing Pulled Pork

To freeze pulled pork for later reheating:

• Cool pork completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer bags or airtight containers.
• Flatten bags to freeze flat for quicker thawing.
• Label bags with contents and date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

To thaw frozen pork:

• Thaw in refrigerator overnight, or…
• Place sealed bag in water bath for faster thawing.
• Microwave defrost setting if in pinch.

Once thawed, follow the Instant Pot reheating instructions above. The thorough steaming will ensure any frozen pockets are fully heated through.

More Delicious Ways to Enjoy Instant Pot Pulled Pork

Reheating pulled pork in the Instant Pot restores it to tender, juicy perfection. Here are just a few of the many ways to enjoy Instant Pot pulled pork once reheated:

• Pile high on buns for pulled pork sandwiches.
• Stuff into tacos or burritos with your favorite toppings.
• Toss with barbecue sauce for easy sliders.
• Add to mac and cheese or baked potatoes.
• Use in soups, chili, pizza, omelets, etc.
• Eat as-is for an easy protein dish.

Don’t let leftovers go to waste! With just a few minutes in the Instant Pot, you can be enjoying your delicious pulled pork again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does reheated pulled pork last?

Reheated pulled pork will keep for 3-4 days refrigerated. Discard any leftovers beyond that.

Can you reheat pulled pork from frozen?

Yes, frozen pulled pork can be reheated in the Instant Pot! Add a couple extra minutes to the steam time.

What if pork isn’t hot enough after steaming?

If the center still seems cold, steam for a minute or two more until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it better to quick release or natural release?

Either method is fine. Quick release ensures the pork doesn’t overcook with residual heat.

What if my pulled pork doesn’t have liquid?

No worries – use the pot-in-pot method to steam solid pork pieces to heat them through.

Moist and Tender Pulled Pork – Effortlessly Reheated

Don’t settle for dry, tasteless pulled pork leftovers. With just the press of a button, the Instant Pot revives refrigerated or frozen pork so it’s as succulent as the day you first cooked it. Next time you need to reheat pulled pork, reach for your Instant Pot instead of the microwave. In mere minutes, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy pork perfection once again.