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Delicious Air Fryer Pork Shoulder Roast Recipe

Pork shoulder, with its rich marbling and hearty texture, is a favourite for many home chefs. Traditionally a slow-roasted cut, it’s often reserved for special occasions. However, with the advent of the air fryer, this delicious cut can be transformed into a succulent roast in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet flavour-packed recipe for an air fryer pork shoulder roast that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preparation of the Pork Shoulder

Begin by patting the pork shoulder dry with kitchen paper. This step is crucial to achieve a crispy skin. Once dried, score the surface of the skin in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This helps the fat render and allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat.

2. Create the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, dried thyme, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a paste. Rub this marinade all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it gets into the scored areas and covers the entire surface.

3. Resting the Meat

After marinating, let the pork shoulder rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavours to seep into the meat better. If you have more time, marinating it in the fridge for several hours or overnight will enhance the flavours even further.

4. Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that you achieve the best possible crust on your pork.

5. Cooking the Pork Shoulder

Place the marinated pork shoulder in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 40-60 minutes, depending on the size of your pork shoulder. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for the meat to be fully cooked.

6. Crispy Skin Finish

For that perfect crackling, increase the temperature to 200°C (400°F) for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as skin can quickly go from crispy to charred.

7. Rest the Meat

Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the air fryer and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender roast.

8. Serving

After resting, slice the pork shoulder into thick pieces. Serve warm with your favourite sides, such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A drizzle of apple cider vinegar or a tangy barbecue sauce can add an extra dimension of flavour.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pork Shoulder

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for a good quality pork shoulder for the best results. Look for marbling, which indicates flavour and tenderness.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add your preferred herbs and spices to the marinade for a personal touch. Rosemary, cumin, or even some fresh citrus zest can be fantastic additions.
• Leftovers: This pork shoulder is perfect for leftovers! Use it in sandwiches, salads, or as a filling for tacos.

Cooking a pork shoulder roast in an air fryer is not only a time-saver but also yields a beautifully cooked dish with minimal fuss. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your success with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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