During Easter dinner, the aroma of roasted pork shoulder is both inviting and comforting, filling the room with a warm, savory scent that hints at the rich flavors to come. As the pork cooks, the exterior develops a golden-brown, crispy crust, infused with a blend of herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, garlic, and black pepper. This crust releases a tantalizing aroma characterized by hints of caramelization and roasted meat, creating an irresistible smell that stimulates the appetite.

Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors—crispy, tender, savory, and aromatic—making roasted pork shoulder a centerpiece that elevates any Easter celebration. The balance of aroma and taste creates an inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to indulge and enjoy the festive meal to its fullest.

Ingredients

• 9-10 lb bone-in Pork Shoulder
  • Bake 1.5 – 2.0 hours per pound in a low heat oven (250° – 275°F.)
  • Will take about 8 – 12 hours to cook
  • It is done when an internal meat thermometer reaches 195 – 205°F. for shredded pulled pork.
  • Or 160°F. for slicing.

Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons coarse salt to season overnight
• 4 – 6 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt
• ½ tablespoon fresh cracked peppercorns
• 1-1/2 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1-1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 3 tablespoons of minced fresh rosemary

Process

1. Rub the pork shoulder with 2 tablespoons of coarse salt all over, tie it, wrap it air-tight with cellophane, place in a sheet pan or roasting dish, and refrigerate overnight.
2. Pull the pork out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
3. Preheat the oven to 450°F. line the bottom of a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy clean up and fit a roasting rack inside the pan.
4. Cut each garlic clove into slivers. With a small knife poke holes in the pork that are about ½ inch deep (or the length of the garlic clove) to create slits and push the garlic sliver into each slit.
5. Mix the seasoning together and rub into the pork shoulder, seasoning on all sides.
6. Place the seasoned pork onto the roasting rack in the pan.
7. Place the pan into the oven and let it roast for 15 minutes at 450°.
8. Lower the heat to 275°F.  and let it slowly cook until it reaches the tender internal temperature of 200 – 203°F. internal temperature.
9. Pull pork out of the oven, tent with aluminum foil and let rest for 1/2 hour up to 1 hour.

Tagged: dinner, Entree, Food, pork, recipe, recipes, roasted pork shoulder