Instant Pot Pulled Pork with Mole Sauce (Paleo Whole30)

Make a flavorful, paleo-friendly meal quickly with this Instant Pot Pulled Pork Mole. Tender pork shoulder is simmered in a rich mole-style sauce made with chili and chipotle powders, cocoa, spices, and a touch of sweetness.

I discovered mole fairly recently at a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco and was instantly smitten. Its complex, slightly smoky and slightly sweet profile works beautifully with meat, rice, and many other dishes. Over the years I refined a paleo-friendly mole and this Instant Pot version brings all of that flavor with much less effort.

What Is Pulled Pork Mole?

Pulled pork mole is shredded pork bathed in a bold, layered mole sauce. This paleo mole combines warm spices—chipotle and ancho or regular chili powder, cinnamon, and cumin—with unsweetened cocoa, tomato paste, almond butter, and a bit of sweetness from raisins. The result is moist, richly flavored meat that isn’t overly spicy.

Using an Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, making it an excellent option for a hearty weeknight dinner or meal prep when you want tender shoulder without hours of slow cooking.

What Type of Pork Do I Need to Use?

This recipe calls for boneless pork shoulder. Trim and cut the shoulder into four even pieces before seasoning and searing—smaller pieces will cook more evenly and reduce overall cooking time compared to leaving the roast whole.

Do I Have to Use Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil works well here because it tolerates high heat and fits paleo cooking, but you can substitute avocado oil, ghee, or olive oil if you prefer or don’t have coconut oil on hand.

Can I Use a White Onion Instead of a Red Onion?

Yes. Red onion gives a bit more bite and color, but white, yellow, or Spanish onions will all work fine. Adjust to taste based on the onion you have available.

Is There a Bone Broth Alternative?

If bone broth isn’t available, use chicken broth—regular or low-sodium—to control the dish’s salt level. Either will provide the liquid and flavor base the mole needs.

Can I Leave the Raisins Out?

Raisins add a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky and savory flavors, but they can be omitted if you dislike them. The mole won’t taste overtly of raisins, but including them gives a more authentic, rounded profile.

How Do I Shred the Instant Pot Pulled Pork Mole?

Shred the pork with two forks for a classic method. For an even faster approach, place the cooked pork in a large bowl and use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low to shred it in seconds.

How Do I Get It a Bit Crispy?

To crisp the shredded pork, spread it on a baking sheet and broil for 4–5 minutes after cooking. Watch closely so it browns without burning.

How Do I Store the Instant Pot Pulled Pork Mole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What Can I Make with the Pork Mole?

This pulled pork mole is versatile. Try it in:

• Tacos or on warmed tortillas.
• Burrito bowls with rice and vegetables.
• Nachos—spread the pork over chips with cheese and toppings.
• Sandwiches on your preferred bread or rolls.
• A plated meal alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or potatoes.

Prepare a large batch for several meals—this mole adapts to many uses and stores well for meal prep.

If you enjoyed this paleo and Whole30 pulled pork mole, you might also like…

• Salsa Verde Paleo Pulled Pork Casserole (Whole30, Low Carb)
• Instant Pot Whole30 Pulled Pork with Dry Rub (Paleo, Low Carb, Keto)
• Whole30 Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Pork (Paleo, Low Carb)
• 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken
• 4-Ingredient Multi-Purpose Instant Pot Shredded Beef (Paleo, Whole30, Keto, AIP)