Pork butt recipes are a popular choice for both home cooks and professional chefs due to their rich, savory flavor and versatility. Despite its name, “pork butt” actually comes from the upper part of the pig’s shoulder and is known for its marbled fat, which makes it incredibly tender when cooked low and slow. Pork butt is a key ingredient in comfort foods like pulled pork sandwiches and BBQ pork, often slow-cooked or smoked to create a deliciously tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Pork butt is beloved in many cultures, especially in Southern BBQ cuisine, where it plays a starring role. Whether it’s braised, roasted, or shredded, this cut of meat can be seasoned and cooked in a variety of ways, allowing you to experiment with different flavors.
Ingredients
For the Classic Pulled Pork:
- 4-5 lbs pork butt (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp ground mustard
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (optional, for serving)
Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, ensure that your BBQ sauce and other condiments are gluten-free.
- If you’re avoiding sugar, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
- For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne or some hot sauce into the rub.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
-
Preheat your oven or slow cooker:
If you’re using an oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C). If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low heat. -
Prepare the rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, cumin, and cayenne. This will be your dry rub. -
Season the pork butt:
Pat the pork butt dry with paper towels. Rub the mustard all over the meat, then coat generously with the dry rub, ensuring it’s fully covered. -
Cook the pork butt:
If using the oven, place the pork in a roasting pan, and add chicken broth and apple cider vinegar to the pan. Cover tightly with foil and cook for about 6-8 hours or until the meat is fork-tender. If using a slow cooker, place the pork butt inside, add the liquids, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours. -
Shred the pork:
Once the pork is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the fat and bone if using bone-in pork. -
Finish with sauce:
If you like your pork with BBQ sauce, mix the shredded meat with your favorite sauce. Serve immediately!
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the meat: While pork butt requires long cooking times, don’t go overboard. If cooked too long, it may dry out. Always check for tenderness.
- Not allowing it to rest: Let the pork rest before shredding it to retain the juices and prevent a dry texture.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
- Searing the meat: Before cooking, you can sear the pork butt in a hot skillet to create a nice crust. This step adds depth of flavor but is optional.
- Slow cooker vs. oven: While both methods work well, slow cooking creates a moist environment that can be a bit more forgiving for beginners, while roasting in the oven provides a firmer texture.
- Smoking: For a smoky twist, consider smoking the pork butt for 4-5 hours at 225°F, adding wood chips for that signature BBQ flavor.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy pulled pork: Add extra chili powder or cayenne to the rub for a spicier flavor.
- Asian-inspired pork butt: Swap out the dry rub for a mix of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, and garlic. Serve with steamed buns and pickled vegetables.
- Vegetarian version: While pork butt is hard to replace, a jackfruit pulled pork recipe could be an alternative for plant-based eaters.
Serving Suggestions
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve the shredded pork on toasted buns with coleslaw for a classic sandwich.
- Side Dishes: Pair the pork with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cornbread for a hearty meal.
- Sauces: A tangy vinegar-based sauce or classic BBQ sauce works perfectly to complement the richness of the pork.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional content may vary based on portion sizes and any additional ingredients or sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I cook pork butt in the slow cooker?
For a tender result, cook the pork butt on low for 8-10 hours.
Can I make pulled pork in the oven?
Yes! Roast the pork at 300°F for 6-8 hours, ensuring it’s fork-tender before shredding.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Closing Thoughts
Pork butt recipes are a great way to create comforting, flavorful meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a classic pulled pork or experimenting with different flavor profiles, this cut of meat never disappoints. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your results or ask any questions you may have. Happy cooking!
