Get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously delicious pork shoulder dishes! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From slow-cooked pulled pork with BBQ sauce to crispy skin pork shoulder with a fennel rub, and from spicy Korean dwaeji bulgogi to classic pork shoulder schnitzel, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting the versatility of pork shoulder as an ingredient. Whether you’re in the mood for tender pulled pork, crispy roast pork, or hearty stew, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make and flavorful recipes. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in some seriously satisfying pork shoulder goodness!
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Shoulder with BBQ Sauce
Get ready for tender, fall-apart pulled pork shoulder smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a stress-free Sunday dinner or a busy weeknight meal.
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 BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, sliced
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. Add the sliced onion on top.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the BBQ sauce.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Shoulder
Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Shoulder Recipe
Summary: Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful garlic and herb roasted pork shoulder recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, bone-in
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, fat side up.
5. Roast for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 50-55 minutes
Crispy Skin Pork Shoulder with Fennel Rub
Elevate your pork shoulder game with this simple recipe that yields a deliciously crispy skin and tender meat. The fennel rub adds a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, skin on
– 1/4 cup fennel seeds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together fennel seeds, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the pork shoulder on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan.
5. Roast for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Cuban-Style Mojo Marinated Pork Shoulder
Mojo marinades are a staple of Cuban cuisine, adding depth and complexity to meats with a tangy, herby flavor. This recipe for Cuban-Style Mojo Marinated Pork Shoulder is a classic take on the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-top bag. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure it’s coated evenly.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and roast for about 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Tender and flavorful pork shoulder, slow-cooked in a rich apple cider braising liquid, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a fall-apart tender meat with a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or braising pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add garlic, apple cider, brown sugar, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork shoulder to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Pork Shoulder with Dry Rub
A classic BBQ favorite gets a flavor boost with this simple recipe. This tender and juicy pork shoulder is smothered in a savory dry rub, then slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the dry rub.
3. Rub the 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.
6. Let the pork rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pork Shoulder Carnitas Tacos
This recipe brings together tender pork shoulder, tangy citrus, and spicy flavors to create a mouthwatering taco filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the lard or oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork shoulder chunks and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the browned pork back into the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Shred the pork with two forks and serve in tacos with your preferred toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Korean Spicy Pork Shoulder (Dwaeji Bulgogi)
This spicy pork shoulder recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes, soy sauce, and sugar with the tenderizing power of braising. The result is a fall-apart dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 2 cups Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper.
3. Add pork shoulder pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove pork from marinade and place in a large Dutch oven. Pour in beef broth and Korean chili flakes. Cover and transfer to preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Pork Shoulder Ragu with Pappardelle
This hearty ragu recipe combines tender pork shoulder with rich tomato sauce and served over al dente pappardelle pasta. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork shoulder, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork shoulder to pot; cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender.
7. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Serve with ragu and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Pineapple-Glazed Pork Shoulder Roast
Pineapple-Glazed Pork Shoulder Roast: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
Ingredients:
– 2-pound pork shoulder roast
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and mustard.
3. Rub the pork shoulder roast with olive oil, then season with ginger and black pepper.
4. Place the pork shoulder roast in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over it.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Baste the pork every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze, adding fresh thyme leaves if desired.
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Pork Shoulder Steaks with Chimichurri
Pork Shoulder Steaks with Chimichurri: A flavorful Argentine-inspired dish that combines tender pork steaks with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pork Shoulder Steaks (about 1-1.5 lbs)
– 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley
– 1/4 cup Fresh Oregano
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
– Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Mix well to form chimichurri sauce.
3. Season pork steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill pork steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Wine Braised Pork Shoulder with Rosemary
This classic braise recipe transforms a humble pork shoulder into a mouthwatering, fall-apart delight. The combination of slow-cooked red wine, fragrant rosemary, and aromatic spices creates a rich and savory sauce that’s perfect for serving with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lb pork shoulder
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork shoulder to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shoulder Posole (Mexican Hominy Stew)
This slow-cooked posole is a staple of Mexican cuisine, made with tender pork shoulder, hominy, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1 cup dried hominy, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: shredded cabbage, diced radishes, lime wedges, and crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, hominy, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
2. Add chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Pork Shoulder Adobo with Coconut Milk
A flavorful twist on the classic Filipino dish, this recipe combines tender pork shoulder with the richness of coconut milk and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pork Shoulder Char Siu (Chinese BBQ)
A classic Cantonese-style BBQ dish that’s sweet, savory, and smoky all at once. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional method, using just a few key ingredients to achieve deep flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup Char Siu sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Char Siu sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
3. Score the pork shoulder in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Rub the marinade all over the pork, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
5. Place the pork on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, fat side up.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Shoulder Schnitzel with Lemon Caper Sauce
Pork Shoulder Schnitzel with Lemon Caper Sauce: A Twist on a Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of pork shoulder with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon and the pungency of capers. The result is a unique and delicious twist on traditional schnitzel.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Caper Sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Dip each pork slice in the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the breaded pork slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot with Lemon Caper Sauce (recipe below) and chopped parsley if desired.
Lemon Caper Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for the schnitzel, plus an additional 5 minutes for the Lemon Caper Sauce.
Pork Shoulder Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A hearty and comforting bowl of ramen that combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork shoulder with the creaminess of soft-boiled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, sliced
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
2. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Add sliced eggs to the pork soup and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. To assemble the bowls, place cooked noodles in the bottom, followed by slices of pork shoulder, and finish with soft-boiled eggs and chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Pork Shoulder Pastrami with Spiced Crust
Transform your pork shoulder into a delicious pastrami-inspired dish with this easy recipe. A flavorful spiced crust adds depth and excitement to this classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp coriander seeds
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp pink curing salt (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, and kosher salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or tray, fat side up.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
7. Roast in preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Pork Shoulder Banh Mi Sandwiches
This recipe combines the tender flavor of slow-cooked pork shoulder with the bold, spicy flavors of banh mi. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 baguette halves
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Cilantro, chopped
– Mayonnaise, sriracha, or other condiments (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Place pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Pour the marinade over the pork and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
4. Slice pork into thin strips. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or sriracha on each baguette half, followed by sliced pork, pickled carrots and daikon, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pork Shoulder Chili with Beans and Cornbread
This hearty pork shoulder chili recipe combines tender chunks of pork shoulder with a rich bean and corn mixture, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Serve it alongside warm cornbread for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 cups pork broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Cornbread ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, eggs, milk, salt
Instructions:
1. Brown the pork shoulder in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and salt; cook 1 minute.
4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, pork broth, and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve with warm cornbread.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Get ready to slow cook your way to tender, juicy pork shoulder perfection! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this popular cut of meat. From classic pulled pork with BBQ sauce to international-inspired dishes like Korean Spicy Pork Shoulder and Cuban-Style Mojo Marinated Pork Shoulder, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting slow-cooked stew or a crispy-skinned roasted pork shoulder, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.