Yes, when cooking a pork shoulder roast in the oven for an extended period, it's a good idea to use some liquid in the bottom of the pan. The long cooking time for pork shoulder, also known as a pork butt or Boston butt, is commonly used for slow-cooking methods like braising or roasting. Using liquid in the pan helps to keep the meat moist, add flavor, and prevent it from drying out during the long cooking process.
You can use various liquids to add flavor and moisture to the pork shoulder roast, such as:
Water: The simplest option is to use water. It will provide moisture without adding any additional flavors, allowing the natural taste of the pork to shine.
Broth or stock: Using chicken, beef, or vegetable broth or stock can add extra flavor to the pork.
Wine: Red wine or white wine can be used to add depth and complexity to the roast's taste.
Beer: Beer can add a unique flavor and complexity to the pork.
Fruit juice: Fruit juices like apple juice or orange juice can add a touch of sweetness and complement the pork's flavor.
A combination of liquids: You can also mix different liquids to create a flavorful liquid base for the pork.
To use the liquid, you can pour it into the bottom of the roasting pan before placing the pork shoulder roast on a roasting rack above it. The liquid will create steam during the cooking process, which will help keep the meat moist and tender.
It's important to note that when cooking for such an extended time, you will likely want to use a low temperature, such as 225°F (107°C), to achieve the best results. Additionally, covering the roasting pan with foil or a lid during most of the cooking time will help trap moisture and create a moist cooking environment for the pork shoulder roast.