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Pork shoulder is a popular cut of meat for pulled pork because it is relatively inexpensive and has a lot of marbling, which results in tender, juicy meat.
The question of what the best temperature for pulled pork is has been debated by barbecue enthusiasts for years. Some say that low and slow is the only way to go, while others recommend cooking the pork at a higher temperature for a shorter amount of time. So, what’s the right answer? Read on to find out in this post with us.
Pulled Pork Internal Temperature
When cooking pulled pork, the ideal internal temperature is 190 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the pork will be cooked through and will be easy to shred. However, it is still important to keep an eye on the internal temperature of the pork while it is cooking, as it can vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast.
If the internal temperature of the pork is above 190 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to remove it from the heat immediately. This will prevent the pork from becoming overcooked and dry.
Once the pork has reached the desired internal temperature, it can be shredded using a fork or a meat shredder. Shredded pork can then be used in a variety of dishes, such as pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or burritos.
If you are looking for a pulled pork recipe, there are many great options available online. Just be sure to check the internal temperature of the pork before shredding it to ensure that it is cooked through.
What Cut Of Meat Is The Best For Pulled Pork?
There are a variety of cuts of meat that can be used for pulled pork. However, the most ideal cut of meat for this dish is the pork shoulder.
Pork shoulder is a tough cut of meat that is well-marbled with fat. This fat helps to keep the pork moist and flavorful while it cooks. Additionally, the tough texture of the pork shoulder helps to make it easy to shred once it is cooked.
When choosing a pork shoulder for pulled pork, look for one that is approximately four to six pounds. This size will be ideal for feeding a large group of people.
Related Pork Recipe
What Temperature Should Pulled Pork Be Cooked To?
As mentioned above, the ideal internal temperature for pulled pork is 190 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the pork will be cooked through and will be easy to shred.
However, it is still important to keep an eye on the internal temperature of the pork while it is cooking, as it can vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast.
If the internal temperature of the pork is above 190 degrees Fahrenheit, it is important to remove it from the heat immediately. This will prevent the pork from becoming overcooked and dry.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pulled Pork?
The amount of time it takes to cook pulled pork will vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast. However, it is generally best to cook pulled pork for 4 to 5 hours on low heat.
This slow-cooking method will help to ensure that the pork is cooked through and is easy to shred. Additionally, it will help to keep the pork moist and flavorful.
The Best Internal Temperature For Pulled Pork (By Freepik)
At What Temperature Will A Pork Butt Stall?
A pork butt will stall when it reaches an internal temperature of approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This is due to the collagen in the meat beginning to break down.
When a pork butt stalls, it means that it has stopped increasing in internal temperature even though it is still cooking. This can be frustrating for those who are trying to cook their pork to a specific temperature.
However, there is no need to worry if your pork butt stalls. Simply continue cooking it until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
How To Shred Pulled Pork?
Once the pork has reached the desired internal temperature, it can be shredded using a fork or a meat shredder. Shredded pork can then be used in a variety of dishes, such as pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or burritos.
What To Serve With Pulled Pork?
There are a variety of sides that can be served with pulled pork. Some popular options include coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and mashed potatoes.
Additionally, pulled pork can also be served with a variety of sauces, such as barbecue sauce, hot sauce, or ketchup. These sauces can help to enhance the flavor of the pork and can also be used as a condiment for pulled pork sandwiches.
Making Pulled Pork: A Step-By-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make pulled pork:
- Choose the right cut of meat. The most ideal cut of meat for pulled pork is the pork shoulder. However, other cuts of pork, such as the pork loin, can also be used.
- Season the pork with a dry rub. A dry rub is a mixture of spices that helps to flavor the pork.
- Place the pork in a slow cooker. Add enough liquid, such as water, chicken broth, or apple cider, to cover the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Make sure the pork is cooked on low heat for 4 to 5 hours.
- Shred the pork in your slow cooker using a fork or meat shredder.
- You can serve it with coleslaw or baked beans as sides and then top off your dish by dipping some sauce on there too!
Ingredients
- 1 pork shoulder roast
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- Hot sauce, ketchup, and/or mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
- Place the pork in a slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and barbecue sauce. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Cook the pork on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or until the pork is cooked through and easy to shred.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using a fork or a meat shredder.
- Serve the pulled pork with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or mashed potatoes. Additionally, serve the pork with a variety of sauces, such as barbecue sauce, hot sauce, ketchup, or mustard.
Notes
- Pork shoulder is the most ideal cut of meat for pulled pork, but other cuts, such as pork loin, can also be used.
- A dry rub is a mixture of spices that helps to flavor the pork. It is typically rubbed all over the pork before cooking.
- The pork can be cooked in a slow cooker on low heat for eight to 10 hours.
- The pork can be shredded using a fork or a meat shredder.
- Pork shoulder is the most ideal cut of meat for pulled pork, but other cuts, such as pork loin, can also be used.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 2%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 15%
>> You can take your time watching this video here to get an insight into making Pulled Pork:
FAQs about Temperature For Pulled Pork
Is pulled pork done at 180?
No, pulled pork is not done at 180 degrees. The temperature of the pork should be around 200 degrees before it is considered to be done.
What temp is pulled pork most tender?
The pork is most tender when it is cooked at a low temperature for an extended period of time. This allows the collagen in the pork to break down, resulting in a more tender final product.
Can I take pork shoulder off at 190?
Yes, you can take pork shoulder off at 190 degrees. However, the pork will be more cooked and less tender if you do this. It is best to cook the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 200 degrees.
How long does it take to smoke a pork shoulder at 225?
It typically takes around eight hours to smoke a pork shoulder at 225 degrees. However, this time can vary depending on the size and type of pork shoulder.
Conclusion
The reason that pork is traditionally cooked low and slow has less to do with the temperature of the oven, and more to do with the tough connective tissue in the meat. By cooking pulled pork at a lower temperature for an extended period of time, this tough collagen has more time to break down into gelatin, resulting in juicy, succulent shredded pork.
So, what is the best temperature for pulled pork? Anywhere between 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick! And there you have it! Now you know how to cook up some delicious pulled pork without any fuss. Be sure to check out our other blogs for more great tips on cooking your favorite recipes at Lilianana Kitchen. Thanks for reading!
