Cooking pork shoulder in the oven can result in tender, flavorful meat that's perfect for pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or other delicious dishes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook pork shoulder in the oven:
Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds (1.8 to 2.3 kg) pork shoulder (also known as pork butt or Boston butt)
- Dry rub of your choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and other spices)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the center.
Prepare the pork shoulder: Remove the pork shoulder from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Trimming excess fat is optional but can help with the overall texture. Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Apply the dry rub: Generously season the pork shoulder with your chosen dry rub on all sides. Massage the rub into the meat to ensure it's evenly coated.
Use a roasting pan: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan or a baking dish with enough depth to catch any drippings.
Cover the pork shoulder: You have a couple of options here:
a. Foil cover: If you want to retain more moisture during the cooking process, cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil. This will create a more braising-like environment, resulting in a more tender end product.
b. No cover: If you prefer a crustier exterior, you can leave the pork shoulder uncovered throughout the cooking process. This will give you a crispier bark.
Cook the pork shoulder: Put the roasting pan with the pork shoulder in the preheated oven. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the pork shoulder, but as a general guideline, plan for approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours. You can estimate about 1 hour of cooking time per pound of meat.
Check the internal temperature: To ensure the pork is cooked thoroughly and safely, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork shoulder is done when it reaches an internal temperature of around 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). At this temperature, the meat should be tender and easy to shred.
Rest the pork shoulder: Once the pork shoulder reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more succulent.
Shred the pork: After resting, use two forks or your hands to shred the pork shoulder. It should pull apart easily due to the low and slow cooking process.
Now your oven-cooked pork shoulder is ready to be served! You can enjoy it as is or use it as a delicious filling for sandwiches, tacos, or other dishes of your choice.