Experience the perfect blend of smoky flavor and tender pork with our Kamado Joe smoked pork shoulder recipe. Get grilling today!
Course Main Course
Prep Time 20 minutesmins
Cook Time 10 hourshrs
Servings 10
Ingredients
1whole pork shoulder6-8 pounds
¼cuppaprika
2tablespoonssalt
2tablespoonsblack pepper
2tablespoonsbrown sugar
1tablespoongarlic powder
1tablespoononion powder
1tablespooncayenne pepperadjust to your spice preference
4-6chunks of your favorite smoking woodhickory, apple, or cherry
Instructions
Prepping the Pork
Start by selecting a high-quality pork shoulder. Look for a cut that's well-marbled with fat, as it ensures juicy and tender results.
Mix the paprika, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This is your dry rub.
If you want to inject your pork for extra flavor, use a meat injection syringe to add a flavorful marinade. You can use apple juice, broth, or your preferred liquid. Inject the liquid evenly throughout the meat.
Generously season the entire pork shoulder with the dry rub. Massage it in to ensure every nook and cranny is coated. Don't be shy with the rub; this is where the flavor comes from.
Prepping the Kamado Joe
Fire up your Kamado Joe grill, and get it to a temperature of 225-250°F. Use lump charcoal for the best results.
While the grill is heating up, soak your wood chunks in water for about 30 minutes. This will help them smolder and produce that wonderful smoke.
Once the coals are ready, add the soaked wood chunks on top. This will create the smoke you need for flavor.
Smoking the Pork
Place your seasoned pork shoulder on the grill grates, with a drip pan underneath to catch the flavorful juices. If you'd like to speed up the cooking process, you can wrap the pork in butcher paper at this point.
Close the lid of your Kamado Joe and let it work its magic. This is where the patience comes in. Smoking a pork shoulder can take 10-14 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding journey.
Monitoring and Stalling
While the pork is smoking, keep an eye on the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the progress. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 195-205°F for perfect tenderness.
Be prepared for "the stall." Sometimes, the temperature will plateau during cooking. This is normal and can last for hours. Don't panic; just let it ride. The pork will power through eventually.
Perfect Bark and Resting
Take off the grill Once the pork shoulder reaches the desired temperature. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is essential for achieving that perfect bark and juicy, succulent meat.
Shredding the Pork
After resting, it's time to shred the pork. Using two forks, pull the meat apart. It should be so tender that it practically falls apart.
Serving and Enjoying
Serve the smoky, flavorful pulled pork on buns with your favorite barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles. Don't forget the sides like cornbread, baked beans, or mac and cheese.