– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Smoking time: 7 hours
– Resting time: 30 minutes
To start, you’ll want to prepare your pork shoulder by applying a delicious dry rub. I like to use a combination of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
Next, it’s time to fire up your smoker. I prefer to use a combination of hickory and apple wood for a sweet and smoky flavor. Once your smoker is up to temperature (around 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit), place the pork shoulder on the grate and let it smoke for approximately 7 hours. You’ll want to check on it every hour or so to make sure the temperature is consistent and to spritz it with apple juice or cider vinegar to keep it moist.
After 7 hours, your pork shoulder should be beautifully smoked and tender. Remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. I like to serve mine with a side of coleslaw and some homemade BBQ sauce.
In conclusion, smoking a 7lb pork shoulder takes approximately 7 hours, but the end result is a succulent and delicious piece of meat that is sure to impress your friends and family. So fire up that smoker and get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty BBQ!
Introduction to Smoked Pork Shoulder Recipe
Smoked pork shoulder is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. The key to making the perfect smoked pork shoulder is to take your time and follow the recipe carefully. This recipe calls for a 7-lb. pork shoulder, which will take approximately 7 hours to smoke. The result is a succulent and delicious smoked pork that will have your guests coming back for more.
Preparing the 7lb Pork Shoulder
Before you can start smoking your pork shoulder, you need to prepare it properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:
– Remove the pork shoulder from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
– Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer of fat on top.
– Score the fat on top of the pork shoulder in a criss-cross pattern.
– Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan or on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Creating the Delicious Dry Rub
The dry rub is what gives the smoked pork shoulder its delicious flavor. Here is the recipe for the dry rub:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl. Rub the dry rub all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get it into all of the crevices. Cover the pork shoulder with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
Smoking the Pork Shoulder
Now it’s time to smoke the pork shoulder. Here are the steps you need to follow:
– Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
– Place the pork shoulder in the smoker, fat side up.
– Smoke the pork shoulder for approximately 7 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
– If you are using a charcoal smoker, you will need to add more charcoal and wood chips every hour or so to maintain the temperature and smoke level.
– If you are using an electric smoker, you can set the temperature and forget about it until the pork shoulder is done.
Monitoring the Cooking Time
It’s important to monitor the cooking time of your pork shoulder to ensure that it is cooked to perfection. Here are some tips for monitoring the cooking time:
– Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork shoulder.
– Check the temperature every hour or so to make sure it is cooking evenly.
– If the pork shoulder is cooking too quickly, you can wrap it in foil to slow down the cooking process.
– If the pork shoulder is cooking too slowly, you can increase the temperature of your smoker.
Achieving Succulent and Delicious Smoked Pork
After 7 hours of smoking, your pork shoulder should be cooked to perfection. Here are some tips for achieving succulent and delicious smoked pork:
– Let the pork shoulder rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing it.
– Slice the pork shoulder against the grain for maximum tenderness.
– Serve the smoked pork shoulder with your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.
Serving and Enjoying the Smoked Pork Shoulder
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious smoked pork shoulder. Here are some tips for serving and enjoying it:
– Serve the smoked pork shoulder with your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.
– Pair it with a cold beer or your favorite beverage.
– Enjoy it with family and friends at your next backyard barbecue or gathering.
