Pork Shoulder Nutrition Facts

Is there another name for pork shoulder?

Pork butt, also known as Boston butt or pork shoulder, is a cut of meat from the upper portion of a pig’s front shoulder. It’s a relatively inexpensive and forgiving hunk of meat that you’ll most often see served as pulled pork in barbecue restaurants.

Is pork shoulder the same as pork butt?

Both come from the shoulder of the pig, but pork butt is higher on the foreleg, while pork shoulder is farther down. As relatively tough and fatty cuts, both benefit from long, slow cooking methods such as roasting, stewing, and braising.

What is a pork shoulder good for?

Pork shoulder is a cut of meat that plainly tells you where it comes from—the shoulder of a pig’s forelimb. It is also called “picnic shoulder” or “picnic roast.” It is best braised, cut up for stews, or used to make ground pork.

Is pork shoulder a good meat?

Unlike the more lean tenderloin and chops, pork shoulder is an incredibly forgiving cut of meat. It becomes more tender as it cooks and benefits from a lengthy cook time, so even if it stays on the heat a few minutes too long, you won’t suddenly end up with something dry or rubbery.

Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder for pulled pork?

Pork shoulder or pork butt are often used for pulled pork. You can also use pork tenderloin (like this recipe) for a leaner cut of meat! Really any of the following cuts of meat would work: shoulder butt roast.

Is pork shoulder the same as pork loin?

The pork loin is the leanest part of a pig with little fat, while pork shoulder texture is lean with some fat marbling. The color of fresh pork loin is light but pork shoulder has bright pink or dark red color.

How long does pork shoulder take to cook?

Cook for 2 to 4 hours, until fork tender.

Total cooking time will be 2 to 4 hours, depending on the amount of pork and whether it’s bone-in (which takes longer to cook).

Why is my pork shoulder tough?

If you don’t cook the connective tissue properly, it will be tough and rubbery. The connective tissue has to break down and literally melt away in the meat. This takes time. but when it’s done, the meat should fall apart by itself.