Tiffany Haney
Picnic pork roast is a lean yet easy-to-shred cut of meat that can be cooked in a slow cooker, instant pot, or oven. It is also known as a Boston butt, picnic roast, or butt roast. The key to cooking a picnic shoulder roast is to cook it on low heat for a long time, allowing the connective tissue to break down and create tender, juicy meat. This can be done in a crock pot with a dry rub or sauce, and the cooking time will depend on the size of the roast.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cook time | 4-10 hours on high, 6-14 hours on low |
| Prep time | 10-20 minutes |
| Temperature | 190°F |
| Meat weight | 4-8 lbs |
| Meat type | Picnic shoulder roast, bone-in or boneless |
| Seasoning | BBQ sauce, garlic, onion, rosemary, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, brown sugar, chilli powder, cumin, vegetable oil, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth |
| Sides | Potatoes, carrots, coleslaw, corn on the cob, mac n cheese, fresh fruit, apple pie a la mode |
| Leftovers | 3-4 days in the fridge, 4 months in the freezer |
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What You'll Learn
Prep and cook time
The prep and cook time for a picnic shoulder in a crock pot can vary depending on the weight of the meat and the desired cooking temperature.
For a 4-pound bone-in pork shoulder, the cooking time is typically 6-8 hours on a low setting and 3-4 hours on a high setting. If the meat weighs 7 to 8 pounds, the cooking time will be longer, around 12-14 hours on low and 6-8 hours on high.
It is recommended to cook the picnic shoulder on low heat for the best flavor and texture. The low-temperature setting on a slow cooker is usually around 190 degrees Fahrenheit, which is sufficient to cook the meat without any risk of contamination. The meat is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit or 145 degrees Fahrenheit for a bone-in roast, allowing it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This temperature range ensures that the meat is cooked beyond well-done, breaking down the connective tissues and creating tender, juicy pulled pork.
The prep time for this dish is minimal, taking less than 10 minutes. The pork shoulder is patted dry, seasoned with a spice rub, and placed in the crock pot with a cup of broth. Some recipes suggest searing the meat in a skillet before transferring it to the crock pot for additional flavor.
The total time, including prep and cooking, for a 4-pound picnic shoulder on low heat is approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, while the high-heat setting can reduce this time to around 4 hours.
It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and temperature of individual slow cookers, and it is always important to check that the meat is cooked thoroughly before serving.
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Choosing the right cut of meat
When selecting a pork shoulder, opt for a cut with visible marbling, indicating a good amount of fat and connective tissue. This marbling contributes to the meat's tenderness and flavour. A bone-in or boneless pork shoulder can be used, depending on your preference. If you choose a bone-in roast, keep in mind that it may be larger and require adjusted cooking times.
The size of the meat also matters. A larger cut will take longer to cook, so consider how much time you have available. A 4-pound bone-in pork shoulder, for instance, typically cooks in 6-8 hours on low heat, while a 7-8 pound cut may require 12-14 hours.
For those who prefer a leaner option, a boneless pork loin can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, and adjust accordingly.
In addition to the cut and size, it is essential to consider the quality of the meat. Look for fresh, high-quality pork with a good colour and texture. Avoid any cuts with excessive fat or connective tissue, as this can affect the cooking process and the final texture of the dish.
When in doubt, ask your butcher for advice on selecting the right pork shoulder for crockpot cooking. They can guide you towards the best cut for your specific needs and provide suggestions for preparing and cooking the meat.
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Seasoning and rubs
A simple and classic option is to season the pork shoulder with salt and black pepper. You can also add garlic powder or garlic salt, as well as other spices such as rosemary, paprika, and thyme, and cayenne pepper. For a slightly sweeter flavour, you can include brown sugar in your seasoning mix. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought pork-specific rub, such as homemade Sazon Seasoning or Pork Rub. Another option is to cook the pork in pineapple or apple juice, which complements the flavour of the meat.
If you're looking for a smokier taste, you can add liquid smoke to your seasoning or try rubbing the pork with chili powder, onion powder, cumin, and brown sugar before searing it. You can also incorporate additional ingredients such as chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavour of your dish.
For those who prefer a dry rub, you can coat the outside of the meat with a blend of spices. This method adds a lot of flavour and is a great option if you're short on time. You can also sprinkle the picnic shoulder with just salt and pepper for a lighter seasoning.
Additionally, you can customise your seasoning and rubs based on your preferred flavour profile. For a barbecue flavour, you can use a BBQ rub or sauce. If you're looking for a more subtle sweetness, you can omit the BBQ sauce and add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to your dry rub.
When applying the seasoning, it's important to pat the pork shoulder dry with a paper towel before adding the seasoning to ensure it adheres evenly. Then, place the seasoned pork in the crock pot, adding broth or juice along the edges to maintain the seasoning.
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Cooking temperature and settings
The cooking temperature and settings depend on the size of the meat, whether you cut it into pieces, and the temperature and settings of your slow cooker. A 4-pound bone-in pork shoulder typically takes 6-8 hours on a low setting and 3-4 hours on a high setting in a manual slow cooker. If your pork shoulder is 7 to 8 pounds, it will take twice as long, 12-14 hours on low and 6-8 hours on high.
It is recommended to cook on low heat for the best flavor and texture. A slow cooker on low temperature is usually around 190 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cook food without it being contaminated. You can also cook on high for 6-8 hours, but this is not recommended.
The meat is ready when it is easily shreddable. You can check this by using a meat thermometer, which should read 190 degrees Fahrenheit when the meat is ready.
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Serving suggestions
Slow-cooked pork shoulder is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
Sandwiches and Rolls
Shredded pork shoulder can be served on toasted buttered rolls or buns. For an authentic sandwich taste, toast the buns before adding the pork. You can also drizzle BBQ sauce over the pork and serve it with coleslaw on the side.
Tacos, Quesadillas, and Enchiladas
Pork shoulder shreds also work well as a filling for tacos, quesadillas, or enchiladas. Serve the tacos with tortillas, lettuce, fresh cheese, and sliced radishes. For an extra flavour boost, add some BBQ sauce or your favourite drink like pineapple juice to the pork before serving.
Sides and Salads
Pork shoulder can be served with a variety of sides, such as potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, mac and cheese, corn on the cob, fresh fruit, or apple pie à la mode. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Gravy and Sauce
Don't forget the gravy! You can make a delicious gravy by transferring the liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan and adding a slurry made of cornstarch and water. Bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, whisking continuously until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle over the pork and vegetables before serving.
Storage and Leftovers
Slow-cooked pork shoulder can also be used as a make-ahead meal. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Leftovers can be transformed into new meals, such as pulled pork sandwiches or tacos, and paired with sides like fruit salsa, Brussels sprouts, or coleslaw.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can cook a picnic shoulder in a crock pot.
The cooking time depends on the size of the meat, the temperature setting, and the type of slow cooker used. A 4-pound bone-in pork shoulder typically takes 6-8 hours on low heat and 3-4 hours on high heat.
It is recommended to cook a picnic shoulder on low heat for the best flavor and texture. A spice rub or dry rub can be used for added flavor, and the meat should be cooked until it is easily shreddable.
Leftover crock pot picnic shoulder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 4 months. It can be used in various dishes such as pulled pork tacos, nachos, salads, or sandwiches.
