Forktionary

Pork Shoulder

Sus scrofa domesticus Meat

Pork Shoulder Meat

At a Glance

  • Category Meat

The Forktionary Angle

"Also known as Boston Butt in the US, despite coming from the shoulder, a name derived from colonial barrel packaging."

Definition

A cut of pork from the shoulder of the pig, commonly used for slow-cooking methods like roasting, braising, or making pulled pork.

Collagen Content High (breaks down into gelatin)
Ideal Cooking Method Slow-Roasting/Braising
Protein per 100g ~26g

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pork Shoulder are:

Rich Savory Umami Fatty

Chef’s Secret

Score the fat cap deeply before roasting to render fat better and achieve crispy skin, enhancing flavor and texture.

Best Substitutes

Pork Leg

less fat, adjust cooking

Beef Chuck

different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for good marbling, a deep pink color, and choose bone-in for more flavor and moisture.

Culinary Pairings

Apple sauce BBQ rubs root vegetables cabbage hard ciders dark beers

Recipes Using Pork Shoulder

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders image 142
Main Ingredient Pork Main Ingredient Meat

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders

Craving incredible, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork? This slow cooker recipe delivers Asian-fusion flavor in a fraction of the time! Inspired by classic char siu, but with a unique twist, this recipe transforms a pork shoulder into tender, juicy perfection. Perfect for tacos, sliders, or enjoying on its own! Easy, delicious, and ready in just under 8 hours.

See Complete Recipe
Authentic Mexican Pozole image 137
North American Soups Stews Occasion Preparation

Authentic Mexican Pozole

Craving a heartwarming and flavorful Mexican feast? This Authentic Mexican Pozole recipe, passed down from a friend in Mexico, is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Unlike traditional menudo, this pozole is free of tripe and pig's feet, making it enjoyable for all palates. This rich and delicious soup is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors and is incredibly easy to make. Prepare to be amazed by its depth of flavor and the vibrant colors! Don't forget to customize your bowl with fresh garnishes and a squeeze of lime for the perfect finishing touch!

See Complete Recipe
Authentic Pork Souvlaki image 118
Cuisine Low In Something Main Ingredient Pork

Authentic Pork Souvlaki

Unlock the secrets to authentic Greek pork souvlaki! This recipe delivers the closest you'll get to a taste of Greece, using a marinade that will have your family begging for more. Tender, juicy pork skewers grilled to perfection – it's unbelievably delicious. Even better? This recipe also works beautifully with chicken, and you can enjoy it in under 3 hours if you're short on time! Get ready for a flavor explosion.

See Complete Recipe
Barbecued Pork Sandwiches Crockpot image 117
Course Dinner Party Occasion Equipment

Barbecued Pork Sandwiches Crockpot

Fall-apart tender, juicy pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! This crowd-pleasing recipe, inspired by Better Homes and Gardens, is perfect for sandwiches on hard rolls or French bread. Make a big batch for easy weeknight meals, lunches, or freezer storage. Learn my secret for super-fast shredding using a KitchenAid stand mixer!

See Complete Recipe
Bavarian Pork Roast image 162
Course German Fall Cuisine

Bavarian Pork Roast

Indulge in this mouthwatering Bavarian Pork Roast, a caraway-infused masterpiece slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot! Served with a creamy, tangy sour cream gravy and perfectly complementing Bavarian-style sauerkraut (recipe not included), this easy supper is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Tender, flavorful pork awaits!

See Complete Recipe
Bbq Pork Shoulder image 189
1 Day Or More Main Dish 1 Day Or More Dietary

Bbq Pork Shoulder

Experience the legendary taste of Kansas City BBQ with this mouthwatering pork shoulder recipe! Slow-cooked to perfection, this fall-apart tender masterpiece boasts an unforgettable smoky flavor. Plan ahead for a 16-hour cooking journey (plus overnight marinades!), but trust us – the incredible results are worth every minute. Prepare for rave reviews! This recipe delivers an authentic Kansas City BBQ experience you won't soon forget. Impress your friends and family with this showstopper.

See Complete Recipe
Bbq Pulled Pork Sandwiches image 108
Lunch Main Ingredient Pork Easy

Bbq Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Get ready to dive into the most tender, flavorful BBQ pulled pork sandwiches you've ever tasted! This recipe uses a slow-cooker method to create melt-in-your-mouth pork, perfectly complemented by your favorite BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray's or Jack Daniel's are highly recommended!). The rich, smoky pulled pork is piled high on soft hamburger buns and topped with our creamy, sweet coleslaw (recipe #100526) for the ultimate comfort food experience. Prepare for leftovers – this recipe is dangerously delicious!

See Complete Recipe