Ultimate Smoked Pork Shoulder
This Ultimate Smoked Pork Shoulder recipe is perfect for those who love richly flavored, tender, and juicy pulled pork. The combination of sweet and savory spices creates a mouthwatering rub that enhances the natural flavors of the pork. Slow-cooked over low heat, this dish is ideal for backyard gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With minimal prep time and the promise of an impressive finish, this smoked pork shoulder will become a favorite for your next barbecue or special occasion.
N/A
Servings
425
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Shoulder
6-8 lbs (Rinsed and patted dry)
Dark Brown Sugar
3/4 cup (Firmly packed)
White Sugar
3/4 cup (Granulated)
Paprika
1/2 cup (Ground)
Morton's Kosher Salt
1/4 cup (Coarse)
Garlic Powder
1/4 cup (Ground)
Ground Black Pepper
2 tablespoons (Freshly ground)
Ground Ginger Powder
2 tablespoons (Ground)
Onion Powder
2 tablespoons (Ground)
Instructions
1
Rinse the pork shoulder thoroughly under cool water and pat dry with paper towels.
2
Preheat your grill or smoker to a steady temperature of 225°F (107°C).
3
In a medium bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, white sugar, paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, ground ginger, and onion powder until well mixed.
4
Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring even coverage. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
5
If desired, tie the pork shoulder with kitchen twine to help it maintain shape during cooking.
6
Place the pork shoulder on the grill or in the smoker, and cook low and slow at 225°F (107°C) for approximately 12-16 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (91°C) for optimal tenderness.
7
Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the grill and let it rest wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes before shredding. Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.
Nutrition Information
22g
Fat
14g
Carbs
38g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cut of meat used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a 6-8 lb Pork Shoulder.
How should the pork shoulder be prepared before seasoning?
Rinse the pork shoulder thoroughly under cool water and pat it dry with paper towels.
What is the recommended preheat temperature for the grill or smoker?
Preheat your grill or smoker to a steady temperature of 225°F (107°C).
What ingredients make up the dry rub?
The rub consists of dark brown sugar, white sugar, paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, ground ginger, and onion powder.
How long should the spice rub sit on the meat before cooking?
Let the pork rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes after applying the rub.
Is it necessary to tie the pork shoulder?
Tying with kitchen twine is optional but helps the meat maintain its shape during the long cooking process.
What is the cooking temperature for the pork shoulder?
The pork should be cooked low and slow at 225°F (107°C).
How many hours does it take to smoke the pork shoulder?
It typically takes approximately 12-16 hours depending on the size of the meat.
What internal temperature indicates the pork is finished?
The pork is done when the internal temperature reaches 195°F (91°C).
Why is the target internal temperature 195°F?
This temperature ensures optimal tenderness, making the pork easy to shred.
How long should the pork rest after being removed from the smoker?
It should rest wrapped in foil for about 30 minutes before shredding.
What is the calorie count per serving?
There are 425 calories per serving.
How much protein is in one serving of this smoked pork?
Each serving contains 38g of protein.
What is the fat content for this recipe?
The fat content is 22g per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 14g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 9 total ingredients including the meat and spices.
What type of salt is best for the rub?
Morton's Kosher Salt (coarse) is recommended for this recipe.
How much dark brown sugar is needed?
You will need 3/4 cup of firmly packed dark brown sugar.
What amount of garlic powder is used in the spice mixture?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of ground garlic powder.
Is ginger included in the rub?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of ground ginger powder.
Can this recipe be used for meal prepping?
Yes, it is ideal for meal prepping for the week ahead.
What should I serve with the ultimate smoked pork shoulder?
Serve it with your favorite barbecue sauce and side dishes.
What is the flavor profile of the rub?
The rub provides a combination of sweet and savory spices.
Does this recipe require white sugar?
Yes, it uses 3/4 cup of granulated white sugar in addition to brown sugar.
How much paprika is used?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of ground paprika.
How much onion powder is included?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of ground onion powder.
How much black pepper is used?
You will need 2 tablespoons of freshly ground black pepper.
What is the best way to shred the pork?
After resting, the meat will be tender enough to shred with forks or claws.
Is this recipe suitable for a backyard gathering?
Yes, it is perfect for backyard gatherings and family dinners.
What preparation is needed for the sugars?
The dark brown sugar should be firmly packed and the white sugar should be granulated.