Iberico Pork Shoulder Recipe: Tender, Juicy, and Delicious

Iberico pork shoulder is one of Spain’s most cherished culinary treasures. Known for its rich marbling and deep flavor, this cut offers a deliciously tender and juicy eating experience when cooked right.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a passionate home cook ready to elevate your pork dishes, this Iberico pork shoulder recipe promises to bring authentic Spanish flair to your kitchen. Slow cooking this pork shoulder allows the meat to become incredibly tender while infusing it with aromatic herbs and spices, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Get ready to indulge in a melt-in-your-mouth pork dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have a taste.

In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the best Iberico pork shoulder to preparing it with a simple yet flavorful rub and roasting it to perfection. Plus, you’ll find tips on variations, serving ideas, and nutritional insights to make this recipe your go-to for pork excellence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Iberico pork shoulder recipe is beloved for several reasons. First, it celebrates the unique qualities of Iberico pork — known for its intense marbling and nutty taste thanks to the pigs’ acorn-rich diet.

The slow roasting method breaks down connective tissues, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically falls apart.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you create a complex, savory flavor profile that highlights the pork itself without overpowering it.

The recipe is also versatile; whether served as a main dish, shredded for tacos, or added to a sandwich, it adapts beautifully.

Lastly, this recipe offers a satisfying cooking experience. It’s ideal for weekend meal prep or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, giving you both hands-on and slow-cook time that fits your schedule.

Ingredients

• 2.5 to 3 lbs Iberico pork shoulder, bone-in preferred
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika (preferably Spanish pimentón)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or apple cider (optional, for roasting)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 lemon, juiced

Equipment

• Roasting pan or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife for trimming and scoring the pork
• Meat thermometer for checking doneness
• Mixing bowl for marinade/rub
• Aluminum foil for resting the meat
• Cutting board
• Basting brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork shoulder: Remove the Iberico pork shoulder from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to come to room temperature. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and rub adhesion.
2. Score the fat: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the fat cap in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat. This allows the seasoning to penetrate and the fat to render beautifully.
3. Make the rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice. Mix until it forms a paste-like consistency.
4. Apply the rub: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to work it into the scored fat and all sides. Let the pork marinate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
5. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow temperature will tenderize the pork while keeping it juicy.
6. Prepare the roasting pan: Lay the sliced onions in the bottom of your roasting pan or Dutch oven. Place the pork shoulder on top of the onions, fat side up. Pour the white wine or apple cider around the edges to keep the meat moist during cooking.
7. Roast the pork: Place the roasting pan in the oven and roast for about 4 to 5 hours. Baste the pork occasionally with the pan juices to maintain moisture. The pork is done when an internal thermometer reads 195°F (90°C) for shreddable tenderness, or 160°F (71°C) if you prefer sliceable texture.
8. Rest the meat: Remove the pork from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving or shredding. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute.
9. Serve: Slice or shred the pork as desired. Spoon some of the roasted onions and pan juices over the top for added flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sherry vinegar or a few crushed juniper berries to the rub.”

• Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or smoked sea salt to the rub for a smoky twist.
• Slow cooker option: After applying the rub, place the pork and onions in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or until tender.
• Spicy version: Include some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili in the rub for heat.
• Serve as pulled pork: Shred the pork and mix with your favorite barbecue sauce for a Spanish-inspired pulled pork sandwich.
• Accompaniments: Pair with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Iberico pork shoulder pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside Brown Rice Recipe VegRecipesOfIndia: Easy & Healthy Meals for a wholesome, balanced meal.

A fresh herb salad or roasted root vegetables also complement the rich pork beautifully.

For a fun twist, shred the pork and use it in tacos or sandwiches topped with pickled onions and a drizzle of aioli. It also works well with classic Spanish sides like patatas bravas or sautéed greens.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, pair the pork with a crisp, citrusy slaw or steamed seasonal vegetables to cut through the richness.

Conclusion

Cooking an Iberico pork shoulder is a rewarding experience that yields a truly delicious meal worthy of any special occasion or comforting family dinner. The key lies in the simplicity of the seasoning and the patience of slow roasting, allowing the pork’s natural flavors to shine through and the fat to melt into tender perfection.

Whether you slice it thick or pull it apart for sandwiches, this recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful results every time.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations or pairings suggested, and you’ll discover how versatile and indulgent Iberico pork can be. For more culinary inspiration, check out our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, or Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for complementary dishes and ideas.

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