Oven Roasted Pulled Pork (Printer-Friendly Version)

Tender pulled pork roasted with a blend of spices and mustard for rich, smoky flavor and perfect shredding.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Pork and Marinade

01 - 3 to 4 pounds boneless pork shoulder
02 - 2 tablespoons yellow mustard

→ Dry Rub

03 - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
07 - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

→ Liquids

11 - 355 milliliters beer (or substitute with cola, root beer, or broth)

→ To Serve

12 - Barbecue sauce, as desired

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to ensure seasonings adhere well. Brush the entire surface evenly with yellow mustard.
02 - Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, thyme, and cumin in a small bowl. Evenly sprinkle the spice blend over the pork and gently pat it to adhere.
03 - Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan or large baking dish with high sides. Pour beer carefully around the pork without rinsing off the seasoning.
04 - Cover the pan tightly with foil, ensuring the foil does not touch the meat. Roast for 3½ to 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 203°F, removing the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the exterior to brown.
05 - Let the pork rest for 30 minutes to redistribute juices. Transfer to a sheet tray and shred the meat, discarding large pieces of fat. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and toss to combine.
06 - Serve immediately with your preferred barbecue sauce.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Using yellow mustard before applying the dry rub tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor. Avoid sugar in the rub to prevent burning at high roasting temperatures.
02 - Residual cooking liquid can be reserved and added to shredded pork to maintain moisture during serving.