Ultimate Guide to Perfecting Your Pork Butt Pulled Pork Recipe for BBQ Lovers

#### Description:If you're a barbecue enthusiast, mastering the art of the **pork butt pulled pork recipe** is essential for elevating your grilling game. T……

#### Description:

If you're a barbecue enthusiast, mastering the art of the **pork butt pulled pork recipe** is essential for elevating your grilling game. This delicious dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile option for various occasions, from backyard cookouts to family gatherings. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering pulled pork that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

#### What is Pork Butt?

Before diving into the **pork butt pulled pork recipe**, let's clarify what pork butt actually is. Despite its name, pork butt, also known as Boston butt, comes from the upper shoulder of the pig. This cut is well-marbled with fat, making it perfect for slow cooking methods like smoking or braising. The fat renders during the cooking process, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To create an unforgettable **pork butt pulled pork recipe**, gather the following ingredients:

- 4-5 pounds of pork butt

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

- 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika

- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder

- 1 tablespoon of onion powder

- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of black pepper

- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar

- 1 cup of barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Trim the Pork Butt**: Start by trimming any excessive fat from the pork butt. While some fat is necessary for flavor, too much can make the final product greasy.

2. **Make the Rub**: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This spice mixture will create a flavorful crust on the pork.

3. **Season the Meat**: Rub the olive oil over the pork butt, then generously apply the spice rub all over the meat. Make sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.

4. **Marinate**: For best results, wrap the seasoned pork butt in plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

5. **Cook the Pork**: Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C). Place the pork butt on the grill grates, fat side up, and smoke for about 1.5 hours per pound. Use apple wood or hickory chips for a delicious smoky flavor.

6. **Baste and Wrap**: After several hours, when the pork reaches an internal temperature of around 160°F (71°C), remove it from the grill and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. This step helps to retain moisture.

7. **Finish Cooking**: Return the wrapped pork butt to the grill and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) to 205°F (96°C). This is crucial for achieving tender, pull-apart meat.

8. **Rest and Shred**: Once cooked, let the pork butt rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Use two forks to pull the pork apart into bite-sized pieces.

9. **Serve**: Toss the shredded pork with apple cider vinegar and your favorite barbecue sauce. Serve it on buns for sandwiches, or enjoy it on its own with sides like coleslaw and baked beans.

#### Conclusion

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the **pork butt pulled pork recipe**, it's time to fire up the grill and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. This recipe not only guarantees a delicious meal but also creates lasting memories around the barbecue. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!