Crispy Pork Shoulder Recipe: Savor the Flavor

Imagine biting into a piece of pork shoulder so tender it literally flutters off the bone. Now, couple this image with a rich, flavorful crackling that takes your senses on an exciting adventure and leaves you hungry for more. Isn’t this the dream of every meat lover? Well, it’s high time to turn this dream into reality.

Pork shoulder is the perfect candidate for a plethora of mouthwatering dishes, most notably, pulled pork. Let’s not confuse ourselves with countless recipes but rather focus on one that redefines deliciousness. Let’s venture into the world of succulent and juicy pork shoulder roast – a simple, yet finger-licking classic.

Ingredients

10 lb bone-in pork shoulder or rump roast;
2 tablespoons of olive oil;
¼ cup of oak-smoked flaked sea salt;
Freshly ground black pepper.

Preparation Steps

Set your oven to preheat at a temperature of 450°F;
Thoroughly rub your chosen pork roast with olive oil. For the next step, you’ll need to get hands-on. Use your fingertips to lavishly apply the oak smoked flaked sea salt to the roast. Add a generous helping of freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring even coverage;
Using a large baking dish or a Dutch oven – ideally with high walls – place the seasoned pork roast inside. It’s crucial to avoid flatter pans like cake pans or cookie sheets, as they won’t provide the height necessary for proper heat circulation around the roast;
Place the roast in the preheated oven and let it sizzle at 450°F for 20 minutes uncovered. The high temperature will sear the roast nicely, forming a crispy crust;
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Continue roasting the meat for about 4 hours with a lid on or until the internal temperature reaches around 180°F. A heavy-duty glass lid is ideal for this purpose. If you’re using a dark lid or tin foil, consider removing it for the last 10 mins to allow for browning. You can also increase the oven temperature or even use the broil setting for a darker color;
Once cooked to perfection, let the roast rest for at least 5 minutes before approaching it with a knife. The meat should be so tender that it can easily be ‘pulled’ into shreds, creating the perfect pulled pork texture;
Enjoy your sumptuous pulled pork with side dishes of your preference. It pairs well with potatoes – mashed, baked, or roasted – and a selection of steamed vegetables;
This dish is incredibly versatile. The flavorful pork can be used for sandwiches, quesadillas, or tacos. Feel free to dress it with your favorite BBQ sauce!

Pairing Culinary Delights: Plum Freezer Jam

In the realm of culinary exploration, a well-composed meal often finds harmony with a sweet counterpart. Plum freezer jam, a delightful concoction of ripe, succulent plums and a touch of citrus, serves as the perfect complement to your gastronomic journey with the crispy pork shoulder. This jam, prepared with meticulous attention to detail, encapsulates the essence of freshness and flavor.

As you savor your sumptuous pulled pork, consider adding a dollop of plum freezer jam to your plate. The tartness of the plums and the zest of citrus intertwine gracefully with the savory notes of the pork, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s a culinary partnership that elevates your dining experience to new heights, a marriage of savory and sweet that tantalizes your taste buds.

Conclusion

In cooking, as in life, simple things often offer the most enjoyment. The oven-roasted pork shoulder with smoked sea salt is a testament to this truth. The minimalistic approach, coupled with high-quality ingredients, results in a versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. The recipe not only delivers succulent pork but also provides a canvas for experimentations. From pork sandwiches to tacos, the possibilities are truly endless. Dive headfirst into this culinary adventure and bring restaurant-quality meals into the comfort of your own home. Happy cooking!