What you'll learn
Choosing the Right Cut: How to select a well-marbled pork shoulder (Boston butt) and understand why fat content matters for pulled pork.
Seasoning & Rubs: Crafting a balanced dry rub with spices and aromatics to build depth of flavor.
Cooking Methods: Techniques for both traditional smoker smoking (wood vs. charcoal), oven roasting, and slow-cooker approaches—pros and cons of each.
Temperature Control: Monitoring internal meat temperature, knowing when to wrap (the “Texas crutch”), and recognizing the “stall” point.
Shredding & Resting: Properly resting the cooked pork, shredding techniques (fork vs. claw), and keeping the meat moist.
BBQ Sauce Basics: Making a homemade barbecue sauce (vinegar-based, tomato-based, or mustard-based variations) and adjusting sweetness, acidity, and heat.
Sandwich Assembly: Choosing the ideal bun (brioche, kaiser roll, or potato roll), layering techniques to prevent sogginess, and adding complementary toppings (coleslaw, pickles, onions).
Plate Presentation & Storage: Tips for presentation (plating, garnishes) and storing any leftovers without losing texture or flavor.
