Imagine a dish so tender it falls apart at the mere touch of a fork, glazed with a perfect balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This Honey Glazed Pork Shoulder isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering or craving a show-stopping main course, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone asking, "Who's the chef?"
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will ensure that the pork shoulder becomes tender and flavorful.
- In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended to create a marinade.
- Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. If possible, let the pork marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to several hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Once marinated, cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in during the cooking process.
- Place the covered pork shoulder in the preheated oven. Cook for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
- About 30 minutes before the pork is done cooking, remove the foil to allow the top to caramelize and develop a nice glaze. You can baste the pork with the juices from the pan to enhance the flavor.
- Once the pork shoulder is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- After resting, shred the pork shoulder using two forks or your hands. Mix it with the remaining pan juices for added flavor and moisture.
- Serve the honey glazed pork shoulder warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for a well-marbled pork shoulder (also called pork butt) with some fat content to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Marinating Magic: While the recipe suggests a minimum 15-minute marinade, letting the pork sit in the honey-soy mixture for several hours or overnight will intensify the flavors dramatically.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to increase the oven temperature. The 300°F (150°C) slow-cooking method is crucial for breaking down tough muscle fibers and creating melt-in-your-mouth meat.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C). This guarantees both safety and optimal tenderness.
- Resting is Essential: Always let the meat rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with the marinade by adding a touch of sriracha for heat or some fresh ginger for extra zing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 578kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 133mg
