Ready to turn a simple cut of meat into a week's worth of delicious meals? The
braised pork shoulder recipe
is not just budget-friendly; it's a game changer in meal prep. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create multiple dishes from one easy-to-make entree, keeping your wallet happy and your taste buds satisfied.
A Low-Cost Culinary Hero
Purchasing a
bone-in pork shoulder
like the
Boston butt
offers an exceptional value, often costing less than $2 per pound. This cut can weigh between 3 to 4 pounds, allowing for generous servings for families or meal prep enthusiasts. Not only is it economical, but the versatility of this cut maximizes your food budget while minimizing waste.
Cooking pork shoulder low and slow transforms what could be a tough cut of meat into a flavorful and tender delight. The key is to select
bone-in
, skin-on options, which help retain moisture during the cooking process. A delicious Sunday dinner becomes a series of delightful meals, thanks to the creative uses of leftovers.
Effortless Meal Prep
This cut excels in the realm of
pork shoulder meal prep
. After a leisurely Sunday cooking session, you can seamlessly transition into the week with numerous meal options baked right in. Here are some ideas to illustrate the endless potential of your leftover pork
-
Pulled-Pork Sandwiches
Use soft rolls and top with your favorite barbecue sauce for a quick lunch or dinner.
-
Pork and Black Bean Nachos
Layer the shredded pork over tortilla chips, add black beans, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
-
Bành Mì Sandwiches
Use a crusty baguette, slice the pork, and add pickled veggies for an easy twist on a classic.
-
Shredded Pork Lettuce Wraps
Sizzle with Asian spices, serve over rice, and wrap in crisp lettuce for a fresh meal.
-
Spicy Chili with Black Beans
Combine leftover meat with beans for a hearty pot of chili.
A Simple and Flavorful Recipe
Crafting a tender and flavorful braised pork shoulder doesn’t need to involve complicated ingredients or techniques. The recipe below highlights simplicity, showcasing how a few select items can yield a rich, satisfying dish
Sunday’s Garlicky Pork Shoulder Recipe
Serves 4 to 6.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 lb.
bone-in, skin-on pork shoulder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 heads garlic, cut crosswise
- 1 cup white wine
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock, more if needed
- 4 to 6 sprigs fresh rosemary or oregano
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
1. Generously season the pork on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. When shimmering, add garlic cut-side down until golden, about 3-4 minutes, then set aside.
3. Brown the pork in the pot until crisp and well-browned on all sides, around 15 minutes, then set aside.
4. Add the white wine and stock; scrape up any brown bits on the bottom. Place the pork and garlic back into the pot, and add herbs.
5. Cover and transfer to the oven, cooking for 3 to 3.5 hours. The meat should be very tender and pull apart easily.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes, then slice and serve drizzled with the braising liquid.
This
braised pork shoulder recipe
illustrates how minimal seasoning—garlic, salt, pepper, wine, and stock—can result in outstanding flavors that permeate the meat, creating a delightful dining experience.
Utilizing Leftovers
When you prepare a
braised pork shoulder
, you unlock a treasure chest of meal options for the week ahead. Leftover pork is incredibly versatile; the possibility for
easy leftover recipes
is endless
- Mix shredded pork into breakfast scrambled eggs or an omelet for a hearty start to your day.
- Combine the pork with pasta and a simple tomato sauce for a comforting dinner.
- Cook it with some black beans and spices for a Cuban-inspired feast.
Storage Solutions
Leftover pork will keep in the refrigerator for about four days. It also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick meal. Ensure you store it in tightly sealed containers to preserve freshness. The ease of reheating makes your
pork shoulder meal prep
even more appealing.
This affordable, flavorful cut invites creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family or on a tight budget, the opportunity to make delicious and diverse meals is simply a braise away. With a bit of planning and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal that extends far beyond the original serving. Embrace the elegance of simplicity and enjoy the rich flavors and textures of
braised pork shoulder
today!