Step 1

1 To make the pork, if using, rub the liquid smoke on the roast. Next, generously coat all surfaces of the pork roast with the rub mixture. Allow the roast to sit on the counter for 30 minutes.

Step 2

2 If you have a slow cooker that has a browning function, preheat it and brown the roast in the cooker insert on all sides. If your slow cooker doesnu2019t have browning capability, simply use a large sautu00e9 pan on the stove over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic and herbs, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, until the onion softens and begins to color. Add the apple cider vinegar and chicken stock, heat through, then change the mode to slow cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5 hours, or until the internal temperature registers 190u00b0F (88u00b0C) on a meat thermometer.

Step 3

3 To finish, remove the meat from the slow cooker and let rest until itu2019s cool enough to handle. Discard the herb stems and bay leaves. Cut the meat into finger-size shreds and discard the excess fat. Skim off the fat from the drippings and mix in the ketchup, mustard, vinegar and salt. Donu2019t be u201cskerredu201d to salt itu2014 taste and adjust the seasonings. Add the liquid, as well as the onions and garlic, to the shredded meat, which will soak up some of the juice. Use while warm or let cool and refrigerate or freeze until needed.

Step 4

4 To make the rub, in a small mixing bowl, combine all the seasonings.