Are you looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious and succulent smoked BBQ pulled pork? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step recipe on how to create the perfect smoked BBQ pulled pork, complete with a homemade BBQ sauce that will take your taste buds on a flavourful journey.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork shoulder (around 5-6 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Shoulder
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer to enhance the flavor and moisture. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Step 2: Smoking the Pork Shoulder
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your preferred smoking wood, such as hickory or applewood, to create a delicious smoky flavor. Place the pork shoulder on the smoker and let it smoke for approximately 5 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).
Step 3: Resting and Pulling the Pork
Once the pork shoulder reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy pulled pork. Using two forks or meat claws, shred the pork shoulder into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Adding the BBQ Sauce
In a saucepan, warm up your favorite BBQ sauce over low heat. Once the sauce is warm, pour it over the shredded pork and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated. The BBQ sauce adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the pulled pork, elevating its taste to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I put BBQ sauce on pulled pork before cooking?
No, it is not recommended to put BBQ sauce on pulled pork before cooking. The sugars in the sauce can burn easily and create a bitter taste. It is best to apply the BBQ sauce after the pork has been smoked and shredded.
How long should I smoke the pork shoulder?
The general rule of thumb is to smoke the pork shoulder for approximately 5 hours per pound at a temperature of 225°F (107°C). However, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C), as this is the ideal temperature for tender and juicy pulled pork.
Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?
Absolutely! Different types of wood impart different flavors to the meat. Hickory and applewood are popular choices for smoking pork, as they add a rich and smoky taste. However, feel free to experiment with other woods, such as cherry or mesquite, to create unique flavor profiles.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create mouthwatering smoked BBQ pulled pork that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of the perfectly seasoned pork shoulder and the tangy BBQ sauce results in a flavorful and tender dish that is perfect for any occasion. So fire up your smoker, grab your forks, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious BBQ experience!
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