Meat/Pork | Keto Paleo Carnivore

Pork Shoulder

Sus scrofa domesticus Allergen-Free
pork shoulder

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Pork

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 primal cut of pork from the shoulder of the hog, rich in connective tissue, ideal for slow cooking and shredding.

Sensory Profile

TasteSavory, Umami, Rich, Meaty
TextureTough (raw), Tender, Juicy, Shredded (cooked)
AromaPorky, Meaty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Collagen Content

High (breaks down into gelatin)

Ideal Cooking Method

Slow-Roasting/Braising

Protein per 100g

~26g

Nutrition Facts

Per 4 oz (112g)
Calories225 kcal
Total Fat15 g
Saturated Fat5 g
Trans Fat0.1 g
Cholesterol75 mg
Protein20 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium300 mg

Chef’s Secret

To achieve incredibly tender and juicy pulled pork, slow cook the shoulder until it reaches an internal temperature of 200-205°F (93-96°C), allowing the collagen to fully break down.

Substitutions

Best Match

Pork Butt (Boston Butt)

1:1

Very similar cut, often used interchangeably for pulled pork.

Beef Chuck Roast

1:1

For beef dishes requiring slow cooking and shredding.

Lamb Shoulder

1:1

Similar fat content and suitability for slow cooking.

Jackfruit (young green)

1:1

Vegetarian option, excellent for "pulled" texture, needs seasoning.

Buying Guide

Look for good marbling. Bone-in cuts often yield more flavor but require longer cooking.

Flavor Pairings

BBQ Sauce Cabbage Potatoes Cornbread Apples Spices

Recipes Using Pork Shoulder

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders image 168
Pork 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.

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Authentic Mexican Pozole image 162
Cuisine North American Soups Stews Mexican

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!

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Authentic Pork Souvlaki image 136
European Meat Dietary Cuisine

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.

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Barbecued Pork Sandwiches Crockpot image 148
To Go Main Dish Dinner Party Sandwiches

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!

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Bavarian Pork Roast image 206
Winter Occasion Savory Equipment

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!

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Bbq Pork Shoulder image 240
Main Dish Course Preparation Main Dish

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.

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Bbq Pulled Pork Sandwiches image 126
Time To Make Equipment Time To Make Course

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!

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