Smoking a Boston Butt in a Masterbuilt electric smoker is a great way to enjoy the best barbecue flavors. Whether you’re an experienced smoker or just starting out, this guide will help you achieve delicious results every time. With the right equipment and techniques, you can easily smoke a pork shoulder to perfection or, if you want to find out how to smoke food in general, there are lots of other great reads right here.
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ToggleFirst off, though, what is a Boston Butt?
A Boston butt, also known as a pork shoulder, is a large cut of pork that comes from the shoulder and upper arm of the pig. It has a lot of flavor and is perfect for slow-cooking techniques such as smoking, barbecuing, roasting or stewing. The Boston butt typically weighs between six to eight pounds and can be used to make pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, tacos or other delicious dishes.
The origin of the name “Boston butt” is a bit of a mystery, but one popular theory suggests that it might be related to the Colonial-era practice of storing pork in barrels, which were known as “butts.” Since the shoulder cuts were often packed into these barrels and shipped from Boston, they acquired the name “Boston butt.” Another theory suggests that it’s because the cut looks like two sides of a buttock!
Preparing the Pork Shoulder
Preparing the meat is an essential step when smoking a Boston Butt. So, it’s important to start by carefully trimming all excess fat before seasoning with your preferred herbs and spices. This adds flavor to the meat while also tenderizing before cooking. It’s crucial to ensure that every inch of the pork shoulder is completely covered in your chosen seasonings for optimal flavor. Taking the extra time to prep and season correctly will lead to delicious results that are sure to please.
Setting up the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
Starting with the water pan, it’s important to fill it up with water so that it can help regulate temperature. Next, you’ll need to add wood chips of your choice, which will provide delicious flavor as they slowly smolder away in the smoker. With this two-step process completed, you’ll be ready to enjoy your Boston Butt!
Smoking the Pork Shoulder
Now it’s time to smoke the pork shoulder. Place the meat on the rack and set the temperature to 225°F. This is a low and slow cooking method, so you’ll need to be patient. Baste the meat every hour to keep it moist. A Boston butt should be cooked at 225°F for an estimated 8-10 hours. The best way to check doneness is to insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat; when it reads 195 to 200°F, your Boston butt is ready!
Wrapping and Resting the Pork Shoulder
Once the internal temperature of the meat reaches 145°F, it’s time to wrap it in foil. Let the meat rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving the Smoked Pork Shoulder
Serve the smoked pork shoulder with your favorite sides and sauces. It’s a great idea to slice it thinly and serve it on a bun for a classic barbecue sandwich.
In conclusion, smoking a Boston Butt in a Masterbuilt electric smoker is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the best barbecue flavors.
By following this step by step guide, you’ll be able to achieve delicious results every time and whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, this guide is sure to help