How To Smoke Pork: Tools, Ingredients, And Preparation
This Smoked Pork recipe involves seasoning an 8-10 pound pork with mustard and sweet rub, then smoking it low and slow at 250°F for around 10-15 hours. The process results in tender, flavorful pulled pork, with the key to perfection being patience and maintaining a consistent temperature. The final step is a rest period, allowing the flavorful juices to distribute evenly, culminating in a delicious, juicy smoked pork dish worth the wait.
Equipment
- A sturdy grill
- Your choice of fuel such as wood chips or charcoal
- A reliable meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking temperature and doneness
Ingredients
- 8 - 10 pounds Pork go for bone-in for more flavor or boneless for easy handling, especially when planning for shredded pork.
- 2 - 3 tbsp Yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp Signature Sweet Rub you can make this rub using the Best Sweet Rub recipe, or if you prefer convenience, purchase a pre-made version from Patio Provisions
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pork: Start trimming any excess fat from the pork. Then, apply a thin layer of yellow mustard all over the pork. This helps the rub stick better to the meat and won't affect the flavor.
- Apply The Rub: Coat the pork with your choice of rub, ensuring it's well-coated. Press it gently so the rub sticks well to the mustard layer.
- Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to 250°F. Ensure your grill is at the desired temperature before placing the pork.
- Smoke Your Pork: Place the pork on the grill, fat side up. This helps the fat render down through the meat, adding more flavor. Close the lid and let it smoke.
- Monitor Temperature: Check the hourly temperature of the grill to ensure it stays around 250°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. Aim for an internal temperature of 195-205°F.
- Let it Rest: Once the pork has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill. Let it rest for at least an hour before pulling or slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its tenderness and flavor.
Notes
With the right tools, good ingredients, and proper preparation, you'll be well-equipped to smoke your pork to perfection!