Barbecued Pork Shoulder
Smoky, sweet, and tangy barbecued pork shoulder that melts in your mouth—perfect for casual gatherings or a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the shoulder roast in a large Dutch oven.
- Add salted water until the roast is fully covered.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 2 to 2½ hours, or until the pork is tender.
- Drain the cooking liquid and slice the roast thinly.
- Transfer the sliced pork to a 2‑quart baking dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork shoulder in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar. You can replace the chili powder with smoked paprika for a smoky kick. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a decent substitute. For a quick meal, use pre-sliced pork and skip the cooking step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued pork on soft sandwich buns for delicious pulled pork sandwiches. Pair it with crispy coleslaw or homemade potato salad to balance the flavors. It also goes well with baked beans or corn on the cob. For a refreshing side, consider serving with Crisp As Ice Cucumber Slices to brighten the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover barbecued pork shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the pork in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Pork Shoulder contains roughly 247 calories, with 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 790mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook the pork shoulder in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Simply place the seasoned roast in the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for easy shredding.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce and cook until thickened.
Can I freeze the leftover pork shoulder?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover barbecued pork shoulder. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).