Perfect Paprika Pork Shoulder
Recipe Overview
Overview
The Perfect Paprika Pork Shoulder is a delightful dish that showcases the beauty of slow cooking. The process begins with a generous rub of kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika, which not only flavors the meat but also creates a beautiful crust as it cooks. The use of a Dutch oven is key here, allowing the pork to sear beautifully before being braised in a mixture of chicken broth, adobo sauce, and chipotle peppers, adding a smoky depth to the dish.
As the pork shoulder cooks low and slow in the oven, it transforms into a tender, shreddable masterpiece. The addition of whole garlic cloves and a bouquet garni of herbs infuses the dish with aromatic flavors that elevate the overall experience. The cooking liquid, rich with the essence of the pork and spices, is a treasure that should not be discarded; it can be used to enhance various meals throughout the week.
Once the pork is fork-tender, shredding it reveals juicy, flavorful strands that can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to sandwiches. This recipe not only provides a hearty meal but also offers versatility for future meals, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or family gatherings. Whether served as is or transformed into another dish, this Perfect Paprika Pork Shoulder is sure to impress.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Combine kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
Sprinkle and rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
Tip: Massage the rub into the meat for better flavor absorption.
Turn on the Dutch oven and add a little oil.
Place the pork shoulder fat side down in the hot Dutch oven.
Add sliced onions to the cooking liquid in the pot.
Add whole garlic cloves to the pot.
Tie together fresh herbs including rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
Stir the bouquet garni into the pot.
Tip: Use wine to deglaze the pan and incorporate the flavors stuck to the bottom.
Add a cup of wine to the pot and scrape the bottom to loosen bits.
Pour in a carton of chicken broth.
Tip: You can use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth based on your preference.
Add adobo sauce and chipotle peppers to the pot.
Put the pork back into the pot meat side down and fat side up.
Cover the pot with a lid and place it in a 300° oven.
Cook the pork for about 4 to 5 hours until fork tender.
Use two forks to shred the pork shoulder.
Use a slotted spatula to remove garlic cloves and cooked onions from the pot.
Pour the cooking liquid into a measuring pitcher.
Tip: Chill the cooking liquid in the fridge to separate and remove excess fat easily.
Let the shredded pork cool and store it in containers.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!
Interesting Tidbits
- •Pork shoulder is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.
- •A bouquet garni is a bundle of herbs used to infuse flavor into dishes.
- •Rendering fat from the pork helps create a flavorful cooking liquid.
- •Using a Dutch oven allows for even cooking and moisture retention during the braising process.
