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How to Cook Tender Instant Pot Frozen Pork Shoulder

Cooking a tender and delicious pork shoulder has never been easier, especially with the help of an Instant Pot. If you’ve got a frozen pork shoulder stashed in your freezer, don’t worry! You can turn it into a mouth-watering meal without thawing it first. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare a succulent pork shoulder in your Instant Pot, using techniques that ensure maximum flavour and tenderness.

What You’ll Need

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 to 2 kg frozen pork shoulder
  • 1 cup (240 ml) of broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavour)
  • Additional seasonings as desired (e.g., cumin, thyme, or barbecue sauce)
• Equipment:
  • Instant Pot (or similar electric pressure cooker)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board and sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Instant Pot

Start by plugging in your Instant Pot and ensuring it’s clean and ready for use. If you plan to sear the pork shoulder for additional flavour, use the sauté function to heat olive oil in the pot.

2. Season the Pork Shoulder

Since your pork shoulder is frozen, direct seasoning may be tricky. However, you can rub some garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the outer layer of the meat. As it cooks and begins to thaw, you can adjust the seasoning further to your taste.

3. Sear the Pork Shoulder (Optional)

If you’d like to enhance the flavour, you can sear the frozen pork shoulder. Just place it in the heated oil and sear for a few minutes on each side. This step adds depth to the flavour, although it is not strictly necessary when cooking from frozen.

4. Add Liquid

Once you’re satisfied with your searing (if you chose to do it), pour in your broth. The liquid is essential as it generates the steam needed to cook the pork shoulder and ensures it stays moist.

5. Pressure Cook the Pork

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and adjust the time. For a frozen pork shoulder, cook on high pressure for about 75 to 90 minutes, depending on the thickness and weight of the meat. A general rule of thumb is about 45 minutes per kilogram for frozen meat.

6. Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 15 to 20 minutes. This process helps the meat fibres relax, making your pork shoulder even more tender.

7. Check for Doneness

After the natural release, carefully turn the valve to vent the remaining pressure. Use tongs to remove the pork shoulder and check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The ideal temperature for pork shoulder should be at least 90°C (195°F) for shredding.

8. Shred and Serve

If the pork is cooked to the proper temperature, it should easily shred with two forks. You can mix it with your favourite barbecue sauce, serve it as is with sides like coleslaw and potatoes, or incorporate it into tacos or sandwiches.

Tips for Success

• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste the broth after cooking and adjust seasonings as necessary. Adding a splash of vinegar or citrus can brighten the flavour.
• Leftovers: Shredded pork shoulder makes excellent leftovers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add ingredients like chipotle peppers for a bit of heat or citrus juice for a tangy twist.

Conclusion

Cooking a frozen pork shoulder in the Instant Pot is not only convenient but also yields tender, flavourful results. Whether you’re preparing a simple family dinner or hosting a gathering, this method is sure to impress. Enjoy your delicious pork shoulder, and relish the ease of cooking with an Instant Pot!