Are you craving a succulent and tender pork shoulder without spending hours slaving over a stove? Look no further than your trusty Instant Pot! This versatile kitchen appliance makes it a breeze to create mouthwatering pork shoulder dishes in a fraction of the time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to instant pot pork shoulder, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time.
Selecting the Perfect Pork Shoulder
The key to a flavorful pork shoulder is choosing a high-quality cut of meat. Look for a boneless pork shoulder with good marbling, as this will ensure a juicy and tender result. Avoid cuts with excessive fat, as this can make the dish greasy.
Seasoning and Browning the Pork
Once you have your pork shoulder, it’s time to season it generously. Use your favorite pork rub or create your own blend of spices, herbs, and salt. Rub the seasoning all over the pork, coating it evenly.
Next, brown the pork in your Instant Pot using the sauté function. This step will enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust. Brown the pork on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Adding Liquid and Pressure Cooking
After browning the pork, add your desired liquid to the Instant Pot. This could be water, chicken broth, or a combination of both. The amount of liquid will vary depending on the size of your pork shoulder and the desired consistency of the sauce.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to the manual or pressure cook setting. Cook on high pressure for 60-90 minutes per pound of pork. For a 4-pound pork shoulder, cook for 4-6 hours.
Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This gradual release helps prevent the pork from becoming tough.
Shredding and Saucing
Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it using two forks or a meat shredder. Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and add your desired sauce. This could be a simple barbecue sauce, a tangy honey mustard sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce.
Cooking on Sauté to Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you want a thicker sauce, turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function and simmer the pork and sauce together for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the sauce to reduce and thicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the instant pot pork shoulder with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. You can also use the shredded pork to make sandwiches, tacos, or burritos.
Key Points: Savor the Flavorful Delight
With just a few simple steps, you can create an incredibly flavorful and tender pork shoulder in your Instant Pot. This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use bone-in pork shoulder in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in pork shoulder. However, it will take longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
A: The pork is done cooking when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Q: Can I make pulled pork in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can make pulled pork in the Instant Pot. Simply follow the steps in this guide and shred the pork after cooking.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover pork shoulder?
A: Store leftover pork shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork for up to 3 months.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with instant pot pork shoulder?
A: Some good sides to serve with instant pot pork shoulder include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread.
