How to Cook a Bone-in Boston Butt (Pork Shoulder)

Introduction

• Presenter: David Gafford
• Focus: Beginner's guide to cooking a bone-in Boston butt (pork shoulder)
• Ideal for new barbecue enthusiasts

Understanding the Cut

• Boston Butt vs. Pork Shoulder: Terms used interchangeably, referring to the pig's shoulder.
• Bone-in vs. Boneless:
  • Bone-in recommended to avoid small pieces drying out.
• Where to Buy: Available at local grocery stores, Sam's Club, etc.

Preparation Steps

• Remove from Packaging:
  • Do not wash or clean.
  • Trim any excessive fat or loose pieces as necessary.
• Seasoning:
  • Use a simple 50/50 blend of salt and pepper.
  • Use a shaker for even application.
  • Apply generously, especially for a nine-pound pork butt.

Cooking Instructions

• Fat Cap Orientation:
  • Up or down depends on heat source direction.
  • Use fat cap down if heat is from below (e.g., pellet grill).
• Cooking Setup:
  • Use a pellet grill, cooking at 250°F.

Monitoring and Spritzing

• Initial Cooking:
  • Cook for three hours without opening the grill.
• Spritzing:
  • Check for dryness every hour starting after three hours.
  • Use water or a mix (apple cider vinegar) to spritz.

Wrapping the Pork Butt

• When to Wrap: After 4.5 hours or when the internal temperature is around 150°F.
• Why Wrap:
  • Helps collagen breakdown and fat rendering.
  • Use aluminum foil for beginners.
• Target Temperature: Aim for 200-203°F internal.

Resting and Serving

• Resting:
  • Place in a cooler for at least 60 minutes, ideally up to 120 minutes.
• Final Touches:
  • Check doneness by pulling out the bone.
  • Pull pork into pieces for serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with family or friends.

Additional Information

• Safety Tips: Use nitrile gloves for handling raw pork.
• Social Media: Follow the BBQ Lab for more recipes and tips.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to entertain and cook for others.
• Promote togetherness through cooking.

These notes provide a comprehensive guide for preparing and cooking a bone-in Boston butt, offering tips for beginners and suggestions for equipment and techniques to use throughout the process.