Craving melt-in-your-mouth, incredibly flavorful pork? Then look no further! This oven-baked pork burnt ends recipe delivers that unparalleled smoky sweetness without the need for a smoker. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, offering a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. Get ready to experience the ultimate in tender, juicy pork perfection – right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast), trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the trimmed pork shoulder in a large oven-safe dish or Dutch oven.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Marinate the Pork
Pour the sauce over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Toss
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the dish.
Step 6: Add Broth and Bake
Pour the beef broth over the shredded pork. Stir gently to combine. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for another 30-45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the pork is caramelized and slightly crispy on the edges – those are your burnt ends!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't rush the process: The long, slow cooking time is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Use a meat thermometer: For extra assurance, check the internal temperature of the pork. It should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Make it ahead: These burnt ends taste even better the next day! Prepare them ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Variations:
- BBQ Burnt Ends: Add your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of baking.
- Spicy Burnt Ends: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Sweet and Savory Burnt Ends: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. Use a nutritional calculator for a precise estimate based on your specific recipe adjustments. Generally, expect a high protein and moderate fat content.
This recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful pork burnt ends – you'll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve such restaurant-quality results at home! Share this delicious recipe with your friends and family – they'll thank you for it!