The Big Green Egg is a grill master's dream, and nothing showcases its capabilities quite like a perfectly smoked pork shoulder. This recipe will guide you through creating succulent, fall-off-the-bone tender pork, bursting with flavor. Get ready for an unforgettable culinary experience!
What Makes This Green Egg Pork Shoulder Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just another pork shoulder recipe; it's designed to maximize the Green Egg's unique qualities. We'll focus on maintaining consistent temperature, achieving that perfect bark, and infusing incredible flavor throughout the meat. We’ll use a simple yet effective dry rub, and the indirect heat of the Egg will do the rest, resulting in a truly exceptional culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 7-8 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt): Choose a good quality shoulder with a nice fat cap.
- 1 tbsp paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: For a touch of caramelisation and sweetness.
- 1 tbsp garlic powder: A must-have for savory depth.
- 1 tbsp onion powder: Complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1 tbsp chili powder: A subtle kick to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Enhances the other spices.
- 1 tsp cumin: Earthy and warm.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and flavor development.
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pork Shoulder: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes a crispy bark.
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Make the Dry Rub: Combine all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly.
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Season the Pork Shoulder: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring every inch is coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
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Prepare the Green Egg: Set up your Green Egg for indirect cooking at 250°F (121°C). You'll want to use a combination of lump charcoal and wood chunks (hickory or pecan work well).
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Smoke the Pork Shoulder: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on the cooking grate, ensuring it's not directly over the heat source. Close the lid and maintain the temperature as consistently as possible.
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Monitor the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the pork shoulder. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the shoulder, but generally, it will take around 12-16 hours to reach an internal temperature of 195-205°F (91-96°C).
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Wrap the Pork Shoulder (Optional): Around the 12-hour mark, you can wrap the pork shoulder in butcher paper or aluminum foil. This helps to speed up the cooking process and keeps the meat moist. However, you'll sacrifice some of the bark development.
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Rest the Pork Shoulder: Once the pork shoulder reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the Green Egg and let it rest for at least 1-2 hours, loosely tented with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to cook a pork shoulder on a Green Egg?
The cooking time for a pork shoulder on a Green Egg varies depending on the size of the shoulder and the temperature you maintain. Generally, expect it to take between 12-16 hours to reach an internal temperature of 195-205°F (91-96°C).
What temperature should I cook a pork shoulder on the Green Egg?
The ideal temperature for cooking a pork shoulder on the Green Egg is 250°F (121°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
Should I wrap my pork shoulder when cooking on a Green Egg?
Wrapping your pork shoulder in butcher paper or foil around the 12-hour mark can speed up the cooking process and help retain moisture. However, it will result in less bark development. This is a matter of personal preference.
What wood chunks should I use for smoking pork shoulder on a Green Egg?
Hickory and pecan are excellent choices for smoking pork shoulder on a Green Egg. They impart a delicious smoky flavor that complements the pork perfectly.
Can I use a different rub for my pork shoulder?
Absolutely! This recipe provides a starting point; feel free to experiment with different rubs and spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
Conclusion:
This Green Egg pork shoulder recipe is designed to deliver mouthwatering results every time. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll be rewarded with a pulled pork masterpiece that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!
