5 Best Pork Shoulder Pressure Cooker Recipes

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the 5 Best Pork Shoulder Pressure Cooker Recipes. If you're looking to revolutionize your cooking with delicious, tender, and succulent pork shoulder dishes, then you're in the right place. Pressure cooking not only reduces cooking time significantly but also ensures that every bite of the pork is infused with rich flavors. Here, we'll explore how you can turn a humble cut of meat into a gourmet feast using a pressure cooker.

1. Classic Pulled Pork

The quintessential pork shoulder recipe that everyone loves. Here’s how you can make the perfect pulled pork in a pressure cooker:

• Ingredients:
• 1 large pork shoulder (about 4-5 pounds)
• 1 cup of BBQ sauce
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped

Method:

1. Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch chunks for even cooking. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the pressure cooker to sauté mode and brown the pork chunks on all sides.
3. Remove the pork, then sauté the onions until translucent.
4. Add the pork back to the cooker along with BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
5. Pressure cook on high for about 60 minutes.
6. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes then manually release any remaining pressure. Use two forks to shred the pork.

📝 Note: If using an Instant Pot, ensure the valve is set to ‘sealing’ before cooking.

2. Carnitas Tacos

Crispy and tender carnitas make for an excellent filling for tacos. Here’s how to make them:

• Ingredients:
• 2-3 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup orange juice
• ¹⁄₂ cup lime juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Salt and pepper
• Water as needed

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients except water in your pressure cooker. Add enough water to cover the meat halfway.
2. Cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.
3. Quick release the pressure, remove the meat, shred it, and season with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Optionally, for extra crispiness, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5 minutes until the edges are crispy.

3. Asian Inspired Pork Shoulder

This recipe brings the flavors of the East with a twist of pressure cooking for a fast yet flavorful meal.

• Ingredients:
• 2-3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• ¹⁄₄ cup soy sauce
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 star anise
• ¹⁄₄ cup water

Method:

1. Season the pork with soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Add everything to the pressure cooker, including the water and star anise.
3. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Use natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Serve with rice or noodles, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.

4. Cuban Style Mojo Pork

Infuse your pork shoulder with vibrant Cuban flavors for a taste that transports you to the Caribbean.

• Ingredients:
• 3 pounds pork shoulder
• ¹⁄₂ cup fresh orange juice
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh lime juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• ¹⁄₂ tsp ground coriander
• ¹⁄₂ cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Combine orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, and coriander in the pressure cooker.
2. Add the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s submerged in the marinade.
3. Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Cook on high pressure for 50 minutes.
4. Release pressure naturally for 15 minutes, then shred the pork and serve with black beans and rice.

📝 Note: Marinating the pork overnight will enhance the flavors significantly.

5. Braised Pork Shoulder with Root Vegetables

For a more hearty, comforting dish, this recipe pairs the pork shoulder with the earthy flavors of root vegetables.

• Ingredients:
• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 parsnips, sliced
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 tbsp thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Brown the pork pieces in the pressure cooker. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onions in the cooker until soft, then add carrots, parsnips, broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
3. Return the pork to the cooker, cover, and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
4. Allow for a natural release of 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Each of these recipes showcases the versatility of the pork shoulder when cooked in a pressure cooker. Not only do they cut down on cooking time, but they also allow for deep penetration of flavors, resulting in succulent, tender, and flavorful dishes. These recipes can be adapted for various tastes, dietary needs, or even served as a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. By experimenting with different spices, marinades, or even different cuts of meat, you can create your signature dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

What are the benefits of using a pressure cooker for pork shoulder?

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Pressure cookers significantly reduce cooking time, making tough cuts like pork shoulder tender in less than half the time it would take with traditional methods. They also lock in flavor and moisture, enhancing the taste and texture of the meat.

Can I use these recipes for other cuts of pork?

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Yes, these recipes are quite versatile. You can substitute pork shoulder with other cuts like pork butt, pork loin, or even beef for similar results. Adjust cooking time based on the size and toughness of the meat.

How do I know when my pork shoulder is done?

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The pork shoulder is done when it easily falls apart with a fork. It should be tender and have an internal temperature of at least 195°F if using a meat thermometer.