Forktionary

Pork Butt

Sus scrofa domesticus (shoulder cut) Meat

Pork Butt Meat

At a Glance

  • Category Meat

The Forktionary Angle

"Demystifying the Ultimate Slow-Cooked Pork Cut."

Definition

A flavorful cut from the pig's shoulder, also known as Boston Butt, ideal for slow cooking, shredding, and pulled pork due to its marbling.

Fat Content High (contributes to moisture and flavor during cooking)
Ideal Cooking Method Slow Roasting/Smoking (low and slow for 6-10 hours)
Internal Temp for Pulling 200-205°F (93-96°C) for easy shredding

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pork Butt are:

Rich Savory Umami Fatty

Chef’s Secret

For a perfect bark on pulled pork, apply a dry rub generously the night before and let it sit uncovered in the fridge, then smoke until the bark is dark and crisp.

Best Substitutes

Pork Shoulder Picnic Roast

may have skin and bone
Ratio 1:1

Pork Loin

less fat, requires careful cooking
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for good marbling. Bone-in often provides more flavor and moisture.

Culinary Pairings

BBQ sauce coleslaw brioche buns apple sauce sweet potatoes chili powder cumin

Recipes Using Pork Butt

Pretty Freaking Awesome Pulled Pork Crock Pot image 129
Main Dish Preparation Main Dish Course

Pretty Freaking Awesome Pulled Pork Crock Pot

This recipe delivers unbelievably tender, juicy pulled pork, perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal! We've combined the best elements from several top-rated recipes and added a unique twist for maximum flavor. Easy enough for the whole family to participate (even the little ones!), this slow-cooker masterpiece is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness!

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16 Hour Pulled Pork image 113
Potluck North American 5 Ingredients Or Less Occasion

16 Hour Pulled Pork

Become a potluck hero with this incredibly tender and flavorful 16-hour pulled pork recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot, this recipe boasts juicy, fall-apart pork that's bursting with flavor. Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

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African Pork And Peanut Stew image 129
Stews African Soups Stews Preparation

African Pork And Peanut Stew

A vibrant and flavorful African Pork and Peanut Stew recipe! This hearty stew boasts tender pork, rich peanut butter sauce, and warming spices. Garnished with fresh cilantro and crunchy peanuts, it's a satisfying and exotic meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Add a kick with optional red pepper flakes!

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Barbecued Carolina Pork image 131
Pork Pork Crock Pot Slow Cooker Preparation

Barbecued Carolina Pork

Experience the ultimate Carolina BBQ pork sandwich! This recipe's slow-cooked pork, tender and juicy, is elevated by a tangy, vibrant vinegar-based sauce and a creamy coleslaw that takes it to another level. The perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors will leave you craving more!

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Bbq Shredded Pork Butt Roast image 127
Occasion Picnic High In Something Dietary

Bbq Shredded Pork Butt Roast

Fall-off-the-bone tender BBQ shredded pork, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a standalone star! This easy slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Enjoy this juicy, smoky pork piled high on Texas toast with crispy tater tots and creamy ranch dressing. Leftovers freeze beautifully for quick and delicious meals later in the week!

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