Step 1

Add oil to a medium sized saucepan set over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Make sure to stir the mixture frequently and watch the garlic because it can burn easily.

Step 2

Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, tamari, mustard and molasses (if using) into the pan. Stir to combine.

Step 3

Add in seasonings and spices including the salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.

Step 4

Allow mixture to come to a simmer over medium-low heat and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Just be careful because if the heat is too high, the mixture will start to boil and splatter.

Step 5

Place pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Pour sauce over top. Cook for 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Step 6

Shred the pork using two forks (you may wish to transfer the pork to a separate plate) and remove any visible fat. Add the pork back to the sauce and toss to combine. Serve warm.