How To Cook A Pork Shoulder On The Grill

Mastering The Art of Grilling a Pork Shoulder

Grilling is not just about flipping burgers or searing steaks. It’s about exploring the full potential of your grill and creating delicious, mouthwatering dishes. One such dish that deserves a place on your grill is a juicy and flavorful pork shoulder. The key to achieving a succulent pork shoulder lies in the perfect blend of technique, marinade, and patience. In this guide, we will take you through the steps to master the art of grilling a pork shoulder that will leave your friends and family begging for seconds.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you fire up the grill, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients to create a tantalizing marinade for your pork shoulder:

• 5-pound pork shoulder, bone-in
• 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chili powder

Marinating Magic

The key to infusing the pork shoulder with incredible flavor is marinating. Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl to create a flavorful rub. Generously apply the rub all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Wrap the pork shoulder in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Prepping the Grill

Prepare your grill for indirect cooking, creating a two-zone fire. This means you have one side of the grill with direct heat and the other side without any heat. Preheat the grill to a temperature of 225°F (107°C) to 250°F (121°C).

The Slow and Low Cook

Place the marinated pork shoulder on the side of the grill without any heat, making sure the fatty side is facing up. Close the lid and let it cook for 5 to 6 hours. The low and slow cooking method will ensure tender and juicy pork.

The Mop Sauce

While the pork shoulder is cooking, prepare a simple mop sauce by combining 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce with ½ cup of apple cider vinegar. After the first hour, use a basting brush to mop the sauce onto the pork shoulder every hour. This will add moisture and enhance the flavor as the pork cooks.

The Finishing Touch

After about 5 to 6 hours, or when the internal temperature of the pork shoulder reaches 195°F (90°C), remove it from the grill and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and tender pork shoulder.

Serving Suggestions

Once rested, use two forks to shred the meat. Serve the succulent grilled pork shoulder on a platter with your favorite barbecue sauce and a side of crunchy coleslaw. You can also use the shredded meat to make delicious pulled pork sandwiches or tacos. The possibilities are endless!

With this guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to achieve a perfectly grilled pork shoulder on your own. Embrace the art of grilling, experiment with different marinades, and let the flavors tantalize your taste buds. Your friends and family will be impressed with your grilling prowess, and the aroma of smoky, juicy pork shoulder will have them eagerly awaiting your next barbecue gathering.