Are you looking for a delicious and tender pork shoulder recipe? Look no further! Pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt or picnic ham, is one of the most versatile cuts of meat out there. It’s perfect for slow cooking, braising, or even roasting in the oven. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food, international flavors, or a little bit of spice, we’ve got you covered with these 18 succulent pork shoulder recipes.
From slow cooker pulled pork shoulder to crispy carnitas tacos and everything in between, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with these mouth-watering dishes. So go ahead, grab your apron, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously delicious pork shoulder goodness!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Shoulder
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in, slow cooker pulled pork shoulder is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and top with sliced onions and minced garlic.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. If desired, brush with barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Classic Southern Smoked Pork Shoulder
Classic Southern Smoked Pork Shoulder Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of this slow-cooked pork shoulder, infused with a tangy blend of spices and wood-smoked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Shoulder
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful roasted pork shoulder infused with the richness of garlic and herbs, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its ease of preparation and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound pork shoulder
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Baste with juices every 30 minutes during cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Crispy Carnitas Tacos with Pork Shoulder
This recipe transforms pork shoulder into tender, juicy carnitas that are crispy on the outside and packed with flavor. Perfect for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and braise for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Shred the pork with two forks and add it to the hot oil. Fry until crispy, about 5 minutes.
6. Drain carnitas on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours or overnight + 5 minutes frying
Asian-Inspired Braised Pork Shoulder
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this tender and juicy braised pork shoulder dish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, five-spice powder, and ginger to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add chicken broth, brown sugar, and browned pork shoulder to the pot.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shoulder Ragu with Pappardelle
This rich and flavorful ragu is made by slow-cooking pork shoulder with aromatics, tomatoes, and herbs, then served over a bed of pappardelle pasta. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder in olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened. Add wine, tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return pork to pot; cover and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Serve with ragu spooned over top and Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Cuban Mojo-Marinated Pork Shoulder
This classic Cuban recipe transforms pork shoulder into tender, juicy, and flavorful perfection with the help of a zesty mojo marinade. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or serving as a main dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Add the pork shoulder to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
5. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the pork on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for about 2 1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
BBQ Pork Shoulder Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into juicy, fall-apart pork shoulder smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and piled high on soft buns. This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ rub and 2 tablespoons of water.
3. Rub the pork shoulder with the mixture, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder on a large baking sheet or Dutch oven, and roast for 6-8 hours or until tender.
5. After 4 hours, brush the pork with BBQ sauce every 30 minutes until it’s caramelized and sticky.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast them lightly.
7. Slice the pork shoulder thinly against the grain.
8. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of pork onto each bun, followed by a dollop of coleslaw and a pickle slice (if using).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pork Shoulder Posole Stew
Pork Shoulder Posole Stew Recipe
This hearty and flavorful stew is a twist on traditional posole, with the rich flavor of pork shoulder taking center stage. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups posole hominy (dried or canned)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the pork cubes over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in posole hominy, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Shoulder
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory apple cider glaze, perfectly balanced on a tender pork shoulder.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and brush the apple cider glaze all over it.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shoulder Adobo with Rice
This recipe combines the tender pork shoulder with the savory flavors of adobo, served alongside a flavorful and fluffy rice. Perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, vinegar, soy sauce, water, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Heat oil in a pan and fry cooked rice until golden brown and crispy (optional).
5. Serve pork shoulder with hot adobo sauce spooned over, accompanied by a side of fried rice.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Spicy Korean Pork Shoulder Stir-Fry
A bold and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of pork shoulder with the spicy kick of gochujang, a traditional Korean chili paste. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive addition to your weekend meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Return the pork to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Add the snow peas and cook until they are tender-crisp.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Shoulder Chili Verde
This recipe combines the richness of pork shoulder with the bright, tangy flavors of tomatillos and jalapeños for a unique and delicious chili.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add tomatillos, jalapeño, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes. Return pork shoulder to the pot.
6. Bring chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 1 1/2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Maple-Bourbon Glazed Pork Shoulder
Elevate your Sunday roast with this sweet and savory maple-bourbon glazed pork shoulder, perfect for a family gathering or special occasion. This slow-cooked delight is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Rub the pork shoulder with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and cumin.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over it.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shoulder Ramen with Soft Eggs
This hearty and comforting ramen dish combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork shoulder, savory vegetables, and soft-boiled eggs. A perfect remedy for a chilly day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bok choy, chopped
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 4 soft-boiled eggs
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, sake, chicken broth, water, onion, and garlic.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Add chopped bok choy and green onions to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with soft-boiled eggs, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon and Oregano Pork Shoulder
Transform your pork shoulder into a flavorful Greek-inspired masterpiece with this simple recipe. The tangy brightness of lemon, the earthiness of oregano, and the richness of olive oil come together to create a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Pork Shoulder and White Bean Cassoulet
A hearty, comforting French-inspired dish perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, bone-in
– 1 lb dried white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of crispy bacon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked white beans, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and the beans are creamy.
7. If using bacon, cook it in a pan over medium heat until crispy and set aside.
8. Serve the casserole hot, topped with crispy bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Shoulder Banh Mi Bowls
Pork Shoulder Banh Mi Bowls: A Twist on a Classic Vietnamese-Style Sandwich
Transform the flavors of a banh mi into a bowl by slow-cooking pork shoulder and serving it with pickled vegetables, crispy baguette croutons, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup pickled carrot and daikon slaw (see note)
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Cover and slow cook for 4-5 hours or overnight until tender.
3. Remove pork from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add baguette cubes and toast until crispy.
5. Assemble bowls by placing shredded pork on bottom, topping with pickled slaw, and finishing with crispy baguette croutons and chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours or overnight
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with 18 succulent pork shoulder recipes that are perfect for slow cooking. From classic pulled pork and BBQ sandwiches, to international-inspired dishes like Korean stir-fry and Greek-style lemon and oregano, these mouthwatering recipes will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
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