What To Know
- Pork shoulder is the best cut for pulled pork as it has a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which will render down during cooking and result in tender and juicy meat.
- Allowing the pork to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender pulled pork.
- If you have a smoker, smoke the pork for 2-3 hours before roasting it in the oven for a smoky flavor.
Indulge in the delectable flavors of our oven roasted pulled pork recipe, a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for your next gathering or family dinner, offering an effortless way to enjoy tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful pulled pork.
Ingredients:
- 1 (5-pound) pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pork: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork shoulder from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes. Trim any excess fat and pat the pork dry with paper towels.
2. Season the pork: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork, ensuring it is evenly coated.
3. Roast the pork: Place the pork in a large roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
4. Remove from the oven: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before shredding.
5. Shred the pork: Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard any bones or excess fat.
6. Add barbecue sauce (optional): If desired, add 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce to the shredded pork and mix well.
7. Serve: Serve the oven roasted pulled pork immediately on buns or tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions.
Tips for the Perfect Pulled Pork:
- Choose the right cut of pork: Pork shoulder is the best cut for pulled pork as it has a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which will render down during cooking and result in tender and juicy meat.
- Don’t overcook the pork: The key to tender pulled pork is to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the pork from the oven when it reaches 200°F (93°C).
- Let the pork rest: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender pulled pork.
- Shred the pork against the grain: Shredding the pork against the grain helps to create tender and juicy pulled pork.
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to find one that suits your taste.
- Serve with your favorite toppings: Pulled pork is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, onions, and cheese.
Variations:
- Spicy pulled pork: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Sweet pulled pork: Add 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mixture for a sweeter flavor.
- Smoked pulled pork: If you have a smoker, smoke the pork for 2-3 hours before roasting it in the oven for a smoky flavor.
- Slow cooker pulled pork: You can also make pulled pork in a slow cooker. Cook the pork on low for 8-10 hours, or until tender and shredded easily.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible flavors of our oven roasted pulled pork recipe. With its tender, juicy, and flavorful meat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create a pulled pork masterpiece that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use either bone-in or boneless pork shoulder for this recipe. The cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have barbecue sauce?
A: You can still make delicious pulled pork without barbecue sauce. Simply season the pork with your favorite spices and herbs.
Q: Can I freeze pulled pork?
A: Yes, you can freeze pulled pork. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
