barbecue pork shoulder recipe
The Best barbecue pork shoulder recipe
I’ve always been a fan of slow-cooked meats, and barbecue pork shoulder is one of my go-to recipes when I want to feed my family a delicious and comforting meal. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m excited to share it with you.
The dish originated from the Southern United States, where pork shoulder was slow-cooked over wood smoke to create a tender and flavorful meat. The rich flavors of the barbecue sauce and the tender texture of the pork make this recipe a winner in my book.
My kids love it when I serve it with a side of coleslaw or baked beans, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker or Dutch oven and let it cook all day.
The result is a mouthwatering, fall-apart pork shoulder that’s perfect for any occasion. As an added bonus, this recipe is also relatively healthy compared to other barbecue dishes – the slow-cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it easier to digest.
Plus, using a homemade barbecue sauce made with ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar means you can control the amount of sugar and salt that goes into the dish. I’ve experimented with different types of wood chips to add smoky flavor to the pork, but feel free to use whatever type of wood you prefer or have on hand.
In short, this recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any time of year.
Barbecue Pork Shoulder
Slow-cooked pork shoulder with a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Tender and flavorful, perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish.
🥘Ingredients
For the Pork
For the Barbecue Sauce
👨🍳Directions
Set aside.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
This barbecue pork shoulder recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re feeding your family dinner or hosting a crowd at your next BBQ party.
The slow-cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it easier to digest and perfect for special occasions like holidays or family gatherings.
To store leftover pork shoulder, simply refrigerate or freeze it as described above – when reheating, be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Barbecue Pork Shoulder
Q: What type of wood should I use for smoking?
For smoking barbecue pork shoulder, I recommend using hickory or apple wood chips. These types of wood impart a rich, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. You can also experiment with other types of wood like mesquite or oak for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot! Simply brown the pork shoulder in a skillet before transferring it to the Instant Pot with all the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes and then let the pressure release naturally before serving.
Q: How long does it take to cook?
The cooking time for this recipe will depend on your preferred level of tenderness – if you like your pork shoulder fall-apart tender, plan on cooking it for at least 8 hours in a slow cooker or Dutch oven. If you prefer it still slightly firm but still flavorful, you can cook it for 6-7 hours.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the barbecue sauce with a gluten-free version made from ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Be sure to check the ingredient labels on any store-bought ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free.
Q: How do I store leftover pork shoulder?
You can store leftover pork shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply thaw the frozen pork shoulder overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in a skillet on low heat until warmed through.