Pork Shoulder: An Overview
Pork shoulder is a large, fatty cut of meat that comes from the upper shoulder of the pig. It's a relatively inexpensive cut, making it a great value for your money. Pork shoulder is known for its rich flavor and marbling, which contributes to its tenderness and juiciness.
Nutritional Value
One cup of diced pork shoulder contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 394
- Protein: 31 grams
- Fat: 29 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0 grams
Pork shoulder is a good source of protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. It's also a good source of fat, which provides energy and helps the body absorb vitamins. However, it's important to note that pork shoulder is also high in saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Cooking Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder is a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. The most popular methods include:
- Slow-cooking: This is the preferred method for cooking pork shoulder, as it allows the meat to become incredibly tender and juicy. Slow-cooking can be done in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or even in the oven at a low temperature.
- Roasting: Roasting pork shoulder is another great option, resulting in a flavorful and crispy exterior with a tender interior. The meat should be roasted at a high temperature for a short period of time, then reduced to a lower temperature to finish cooking.
- Braising: Braising is a combination of slow-cooking and roasting. The pork shoulder is browned in a skillet, then transferred to a liquid-filled Dutch oven or slow cooker and cooked until tender.
Enjoying Pork Shoulder
There are endless ways to enjoy pork shoulder. Here are a few ideas:
- Pulled pork: This is a classic dish made by slow-cooking pork shoulder until it shreds easily. It can be served on sandwiches, tacos, or burritos.
- Carnitas: Carnitas is a Mexican dish made by braising pork shoulder in lard or oil until it's crispy and tender. It's often served with tortillas, salsa, and guacamole.
- Barbecue: Pork shoulder is a popular choice for barbecue, as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked over low heat for an extended period of time.
- Soups and stews: Pork shoulder can be added to soups and stews for extra flavor and richness.
- Stir-fries: Thinly sliced pork shoulder can be added to stir-fries for a protein-packed and flavorful addition.
Pork shoulder is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Whether you're slow-cooking it, roasting it, or braising it, pork shoulder is sure to please your taste buds!
How many calories are in Pork Shoulder?
Each 1 cup, diced of Pork Shoulder contains 394 calories.
Pork Shoulder Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup, diced (135g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 394 Calories |
| Protein | 31g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 0.122mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 0.092mg |
| Potassium | 0.4442mg |
| Calcium | 0.032mg |
| Iron | 0.0018mg |