BBQ Pork Shoulder – The Secret is in the Rub

May 20
12:38

2024

Doug Stranahan

Doug Stranahan

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Fall, football, and BBQ – the perfect trio for any tailgate or patio gathering. If you're wondering what to serve, BBQ Pork Shoulder is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even if you don't own a smoker, you can still achieve mouth-watering results on a gas grill by focusing on the rub and following these simple steps.

Why BBQ Pork Shoulder?

Pork shoulder is an excellent choice for your next event for two main reasons: it's easy to prepare and budget-friendly. Typically costing less than three dollars per pound,BBQ Pork Shoulder – The Secret is in the Rub Articles pork shoulder is the front leg of the pig and comes in two cuts: the butt cut and the picnic cut. The butt cut, which has less bone, is generally preferred. A six-and-a-half-pound roast can serve up to twelve people with leftovers.

The Importance of Indirect Heat

Most pork shoulder recipes recommend using a smoker because it provides indirect heat, essential for the long, slow cooking process. If you don't have a smoker, don't worry. You can still achieve great results using a three-burner gas grill. The key is to maintain indirect heat throughout the cooking process.

The Perfect Rub

The flavor of your BBQ pork shoulder starts with the rub. Here's a simple yet effective recipe:

  • ¼ cup organic paprika
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons pepper
  • 2 tablespoons organic cumin
  • 2 tablespoons organic garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar

Mix these ingredients in a small bowl. Generously coat the pork shoulder with the rub, ensuring you use the entire mixture for a 6-8 pound roast. Do not trim the fat; it adds flavor and moisture. Once coated, refrigerate the roast. Ideally, let it sit overnight, but if you're short on time, a couple of hours will suffice.

Grilling Instructions

Using a three-burner gas grill, follow these steps:

  1. Turn the two outside burners on low heat.
  2. Place an aluminum pan with a raised rack over the middle burner, but leave the middle burner off.
  3. Position the pork shoulder on the rack, fat side up.
  4. Close the lid and resist the urge to peek for three hours.

After three hours, check the internal temperature. It should be between 130-140°F. If it is, you're on the right track. Cover the roast with a foil tent, reduce the heat to one burner, and close the lid. In another 2-3 hours, the internal temperature should reach 185°F, indicating that your pork shoulder is ready to serve.

Interesting Stats

  • According to the National Pork Board, pork shoulder is one of the most popular cuts for BBQ, with over 1.5 billion pounds consumed annually in the U.S. Source: National Pork Board
  • A study by the USDA found that pork shoulder contains about 20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving, making it a great source of protein. Source: USDA
  • The average American consumes about 50 pounds of pork per year, with BBQ pork shoulder being a significant contributor. Source: USDA

Conclusion

BBQ pork shoulder is a fantastic option for any fall gathering, especially when paired with football and tailgating. By focusing on the rub and using indirect heat on a gas grill, you can achieve delicious results without needing a smoker. Enjoy your BBQ pork shoulder and impress your guests with your grilling skills!

Enjoy!

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