Pork Shoulder is Versatile, and Bursting with Flavor - National Pork Board

Shoulder

Pork shoulder is fall-apart-tender, bursting with flavor, and can be found in a variety of recipes. Deliciously easy, know what to look for at the meat counter!

Meat Counter Basics: Pork Shoulder
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Most of us know pork shoulder for its famous finished product: pulled pork.

Pork shoulder goes by several names at the grocery store including picnic roast, Boston butt, blade roast, and pork butt. Common cooking methods for pork shoulder include braising, smoking, roasting, grilling, and slow cooking.

Cook pork shoulder on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to make sure your pork shoulder reaches an internal temperature of 170°F. Remove from the slow cooker and let rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.

 

To ensure a great eating experience, cook pork shoulder to an internal temperature of 170°F.

Pork Temperature

Pork Shoulder Recipes

Cochinita Pibil
boneless pork shoulder85 mins12 servingsMexican cuisineslow cooking
Grill-Roasted Pork Shoulder with Broccolini and Applesauce
boneless pork shoulder2 hours8 servingsgrilling
Michoacan-Style Pork Carnitas With Green Apple Slaw
boneless pork shoulder8 servingsMexican cuisine browning