There is nothing quite like the taste of succulent and tender pulled pork that has been smoked to perfection. And if you’re lucky enough to have an electric smoker, then you’re in for a real treat.
Smoking pork is a bit of an art form, but with our tips and tricks, you’ll be smoking like a pro in no time. Read on to learn how to make electric smoker pulled pork that will have your friends and family begging for more.
You can also check our articles on How to Make Smoked Chicken Wings Electric Smoker, How to Smoke a Turkey Breast in Electric Smoker, How to Use an Electric Smoker, Best Electric Smoker Recipes, How to Smoke a Pork Butt in an Electric Smoker, and How to Smoke a Whole Chicken in an Electric Smoker.
What Cut to Use for Pulled Pork?
There are a few different cuts of pork that you can use for pulled pork, but the most common is the pork shoulder. Pork shoulder is also sometimes called Boston butt or picnic shoulder.
Pork shoulder is a relatively tough cut of meat, which makes it perfect for smoking. The fat content in pork shoulder also helps to keep the meat moist and juicy, which is exactly what you want in pulled pork.
Smoked Pork Shoulder Electric Smoker – The Basic Steps
Here are some basic steps to follow when smoking pork shoulder in an electric smoker:
First Prep your Dry Rub
One of the keys to great pulled pork is a good dry rub. A dry rub is a mixture of spices that you rub into the meat before smoking. The spices in the dry rub will help to flavor the meat and give it a nice crust.
The Perfect Rub for your Pork
There are a million different ways to make a dry rub, so feel free to experiment until you find a combination that you like. But if you’re looking for a good starting point, then try this mix for the perfect pork shoulder rub:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
Mix the above ingredients together and set aside.
Prep the Pork Shoulder (12 to 24 hours in advance if possible)
Remove the pork shoulder from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. This will help the meat to cook evenly.
Next, trim off any excess fat from the pork shoulder. You don’t need to remove all of the fat, but you should trim off any large pieces.
Temper the Meat Before Smoking
Once the pork shoulder is trimmed and at room temperature, it’s time to temper it. Tempering the meat helps to break down the tough connective tissues, which results in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.
There are a few different ways that you can temper the pork shoulder, but the most common is to use a brine.
To make a brine, simply mix together 1 cup of water with 1 cup of salt. You can also add in some sugar, spices, or other flavors if you like.
Place the pork shoulder in the brine and let it sit for 2-4 hours.
You can also temper the pork shoulder by injecting it with a marinade. This is a bit more advanced, but if you’re up for it, then give it a try.
Rub the Spice Rub All Over
Once the pork shoulder is tempered, it’s time to rub on the spice mixture. Make sure to cover the entire piece of meat with a generous amount of rub.
After the pork shoulder is coated with the spice mixture, place it in the fridge and let it sit for at least 1 hour, but ideally 12-24 hours. This will give the spices time to penetrate the meat and really flavor it.
Should I Wrap My Pork Shoulder?
You might have heard that you need to wrap your pork shoulder in foil or bacon before smoking it. This is a matter of personal preference, but we generally don’t recommend wrapping the pork shoulder.
Wrapping the pork shoulder can actually make it harder to form a nice bark on the outside of the meat. The bark is a mixture of the spice rub and the rendered fat, and it’s one of the things that makes pulled pork so delicious.
If you do decide to wrap your pork shoulder, then we recommend doing it after the first few hours of smoking. This will help to form a nice bark on the outside of the meat.
Set up your Electric Smoker
Now it’s time to set up your electric smoker. When setting up your smoker, you’ll want to make sure that the temperature is set to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
You’ll also want to add some wood chips to the smoker. We recommend using hickory or apple wood chips, but feel free to experiment with other types of wood.
Once the smoker is set up, and the wood chips are added, it’s time to place the pork shoulder in the smoker.
Smoke It
Now it’s time to let the smoker do its job.
Be Prepared for the Stall
One of the most frustrating things about smoking meat is the stall. The stall is when the internal temperature of the meat stops rising, even though it’s still cooking.
The stall usually happens at around 150 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can last for a few hours. The good news is that the meat will eventually start cooking again, so just be patient.
The best way to avoid the stall is to not open the smoker door too often. Every time you open the smoker door, heat escapes, and it can prolong the stall.
Check the Temperature Regularly
Even though you shouldn’t open the smoker door too often, you should still check on the pork shoulder every hour or so. This will help you to monitor the temperature and make sure that the pork shoulder is cooking evenly.
We recommend using a meat thermometer with a long probe. This way, you can insert the probe into the meat without opening the smoker door.
The Importance of a Drip Pan (With Water)
It’s important to place a drip pan beneath the pork shoulder when smoking it. The drip pan will catch any juices that drip off of the meat, and it will also help to keep the smoker clean.
To keep the temperature in the smoker constant, we recommend filling the drip pan with water.
What Do you Spray on it when It’s in the Smoker?
You don’t necessarily need to spray the pork shoulder while it’s in the smoker, but many people like to do so.
If you do decide to spray the pork shoulder, we recommend using a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Let Smoked Pork Shoulder Cook Until 190 Degrees Internal Temp
You’ll want to smoke the pork shoulder until it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the pork is cooked all the way through and that it’s nice and tender.
It takes approximately 2 hours per pound to smoke a pork shoulder at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. So, a 4-pound pork shoulder will take 8 hours to smoke.
After the Cook
Once the pork shoulder reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to take it out of the smoker.
How Long do I Let my Pork Shoulder Rest?
You should let the pork shoulder rest for at least 30 minutes before cutting into it. This will give the juices a chance to redistribute, and it will make the pork shoulder even more tender.
If you can’t wait that long, then we understand. Just be aware that the pork shoulder won’t be quite as tender if you don’t let it rest. But it will still be delicious!
Shredding for Pulled Pork
Now it’s time to shred the pork shoulder. The best way to do this is to use a pair of forks. Start by placing the pork shoulder on a cutting board or a plate.
Then, use the forks to pull the meat apart. The meat should easily shred if it’s cooked properly.
Saucing for Pulled Pork
The final step is to add some sauce to the pulled pork. We recommend using a barbecue sauce or a honey mustard sauce. These sauces will complement the flavor of the pork nicely.
If you want, you can also add some chopped onions, green peppers, or other vegetables to the pulled pork. This is entirely up to you.
Once the sauce is added, the pulled pork is ready to be served. And don’t forget to enjoy it with a cold beer!
Best Wood for Smoked Pork Shoulder
As we mentioned earlier, the best wood for smoked pork shoulder is hickory. Hickory has a strong flavor that goes well with pork.
However, feel free to experiment with other types of wood. Some people like to use mesquite or apple wood, while others prefer to use cherry wood.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what type of wood you want to use. Just be sure to avoid using pine or cedar, as these can give the pork an unpleasant flavor. When smoked with the right wood, pork shoulder can be a delicious and mouth-watering treat.
How to Freeze Smoked Pulled Pork?
There are a few different ways that you can go about freezing your smoked pulled pork. The first way is to wrap the pork tightly in aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Another option is to portion the pork into individual servings and then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place the pork in an airtight container before freezing it.
Whichever method you choose, it’s important to label the package with the date so that you know how long it has been in the freezer. When stored properly, smoked pulled pork will keep for up to three months.
How to Reheat Smoked Pulled Pork?
There are many ways to reheat smoked pulled pork so that it is evenly heated and moist. One way is to place the pork in an oven-safe dish and cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Then, place the dish in a preheated oven set to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for approximately 30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another way to reheat smoked pulled pork is to use a slow cooker. Place the pork in the slow cooker and add ¼ cup of water per pound of pork. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for two to four hours or until the pork is heated through.
When reheating smoked pulled pork, it is important to avoid overcooking it as this will dry out the meat. Therefore, it is best to use methods that allow you to slowly reheat the meat over low heat.
What to Serve with Smoked Pork Shoulder?
There are many sides that go well with smoked pork shoulder. Some of our favorites include mac and cheese, green beans, cornbread, and coleslaw.
You can also serve the pork on a sandwich with some of your favorite toppings. Popular toppings for pulled pork sandwiches include barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles.
There are many other side dishes and toppings that you can pair with smoked pork shoulder. Whatever sides you choose to serve, we recommend keeping them simple so that the pork is the star of the show.
Best Ways to Utilize the Meat
One of the best ways to utilize smoked pulled pork is to create a tasty sandwich.
For this sandwich, you will need:
One or two slices of bread, depending on how many sandwiches you want to make; one to two tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce; and around ¼ to ½ cup of smoked pulled pork.
First, start by spreading the BBQ sauce on one or both slices of bread, depending on your preference. Then, add the smoked pulled pork to the sandwich, and enjoy!
Another great way to utilize smoked pulled pork is in a rice dish.
For this dish, you will need:
One cup of white rice; two tablespoons of olive oil; one onion, diced; two cloves of garlic, minced; two cups of chicken broth; one cup of salsa; and around ¼ to ½ cup of smoked pulled pork.
First, start by cooking the rice according to the package directions. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
Then, stir in the chicken broth, salsa, and smoked pulled pork. Once everything is heated through, serve over the cooked rice and enjoy!
10 Pro Tips & Tricks for Success
1. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
2. Use a quality dry rub or spice blend to add flavor to the pork.
3. Cook the pork shoulder until it is very tender and easy to shred.
4. Let the pork rest for at least 30 minutes before shredding it.
5. Use a sharp knife or an electric knife to shred the pork.
6. Add your favorite sauce to the pork after it has been shredded.
7. Serve the pork on a sandwich with some of your favorite toppings.
8. Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
9. Reheat the pork slowly over low heat to avoid drying it out.
10. Keep the sides simple so that the pork can shine.
Pulled Pork Recipe Electric Smoker
Ingredients:
-1 (5-6 lb) pork shoulder
-1 cup apple cider vinegar
-1/2 cup ketchup
-1/4 cup brown sugar
-1 tablespoon smoked paprika
-1 teaspoon cumin
-1 teaspoon garlic powder
-1 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-1/2 cup apple cider
-1/4 cup BBQ sauce
-10-12 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Place pork shoulder in a large zip-top bag. Pour the apple cider vinegar mixture over the pork, seal the bag, and massage it until the pork is evenly coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. When you’re ready to cook the pork, remove it from the bag and pat it dry with paper towels.
5. Pour apple cider into the water pan of your electric smoker. Place the pork on the racks of the smoker, fat side up, and smoke at 225°F for 10-12 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
6. Remove the pork from the smoker and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before shredding with a fork or chopping it into small pieces.
7. In a small bowl, combine apple cider and BBQ sauce. Serve the pork on hamburger buns, topped with the apple cider BBQ sauce. Enjoy!
Electric Smoker Pulled Pork FAQs
How long does it take to smoke a pork shoulder at 250?
It will take approximately 90 mins per pound to smoke a pork shoulder at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to smoke a 5 lb pulled pork?
At 250 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 7.5 hours, and at 225 degrees Fahrenheit, it will take approximately 9-10 hours to smoke a 5 lb pulled pork.
Why is my pork shoulder tough or not shredding?
There are a few reasons why your pork shoulder might be tough or not shredding properly.
1. The pork was not cooked long enough. Pork shoulders need to be cooked until they are very tender and easy to shred. This can take 8-10 hours or even longer.
2. The pork was not rested before shredding. Once the pork has been cooked, let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before shredding. This will give the meat time to reabsorb its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.
3. The wrong type of knife was used to shred the pork. A sharp knife or an electric knife will make it easier to shred the pork.
4. The pork was overcooked and dry. If the pork is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. Be sure to cook it until it is tender but not dry.
How do you keep a pork shoulder moist when smoking?
Here are a few things you can do to keep your pork shoulder moist while smoking it.
1. Use a water pan. Place a pan of water in the smoker next to the pork shoulder. This will help to add moisture to the air and keep the pork from drying out.
2. Baste the pork shoulder. Every hour or so, baste the pork with apple cider or chicken stock. This will help to keep it moist and flavorful.
3. Wrap the pork shoulder. After the pork has been smoked for 4-5 hours, you can wrap it in foil or butcher paper. This will help to trap moisture and keep the pork from drying out.
4. Avoid opening the smoker too often. Every time you open the smoker, heat and moisture escape. Only open it when absolutely necessary.
5. Use a spray bottle. Fill a spray bottle with apple cider or chicken stock and spritz the pork shoulder every hour or so. This will help to keep it moist.
What if my pork shoulder is taking longer than 90 minutes per pound?
If your pork shoulder is taking longer than 90 minutes per pound to cook, there are a few things you can do.
1. Check the temperature of the smoker. The temperature inside the smoker should be between 225°F and 250°F.
2. Check the water pan. Make sure the water pan is full and not dry.
3. Wrap the pork shoulder in foil. This will help to create a steam pocket and speed up the cooking process.
4. Check the vents on the smoker. Make sure they are open so that the heat and smoke can circulate properly.
5. Give it time. Sometimes, it just takes a little longer for the pork shoulder to reach the ideal internal temperature. Be patient and trust the process!
Conclusion
Smoking pork shoulder is easy to do at home with an electric smoker. With a little patience and the right technique, you can enjoy delicious, perfectly cooked pulled pork that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Follow the steps above, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different woods, rubs, and sauces to create your own unique flavor.
You now know how to make electric smoker pulled pork. Try it for your next cookout, and enjoy!