Are you looking for a flavorful and tender pork shoulder recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering Asian-inspired pork shoulder recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic braises to spicy BBQs, and from sweet glazes to savory stews, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Asian pork shoulder recipes!
Braised Asian Pork Shoulder with Soy Sauce and Ginger
This recipe offers a rich and flavorful take on traditional braised pork shoulder, infused with the bold flavors of Asia. Tender, fall-apart meat is perfectly balanced by the savory notes of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the pork shoulder on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in beef broth, covering the meat by about half.
6. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow-Cooked Asian Pork Shoulder with Star Anise and Cinnamon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of star anise and cinnamon to create a tender and aromatic pork shoulder dish, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground star anise
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, cumin, cinnamon, star anise, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and brown sugar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the pot or slow cooker, and cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Spicy Korean-Style Pork Shoulder BBQ
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this bold and spicy Korean-inspired pork shoulder barbecue recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to 275°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Add the pork shoulder and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill or smoke the pork for 6-8 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add sliced onions to the grill or smoker.
7. Serve with additional Gochujang sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Vietnamese Caramelized Pork Shoulder with Fish Sauce
A classic Vietnamese dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized pork shoulder and fish sauce, resulting in a sweet and savory masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, sliced into thick strips
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the sliced pork shoulder to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Chinese Red-Braised Pork Shoulder with Rock Sugar
A classic Chinese braising technique elevates pork shoulder to new heights, as the rich flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and spices meld together with tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup rock sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork shoulder, rock sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and spices.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. Strain the braising liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
6. Serve the pork shoulder with the reserved braising liquid spooned over.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Thai Basil Pork Shoulder Stir-Fry
Thai Basil Pork Shoulder Stir-Fry Recipe
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the tender juiciness of pork shoulder, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add pork shoulder; cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Stir in Thai basil leaves, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using); cook for 30 seconds to combine flavors.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso-Glazed Pork Shoulder
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pork shoulder, this Japanese-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of miso paste with a hint of sweetness from honey and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Brush the miso glaze all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Add the water to the baking dish and bring the liquid to a simmer.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Filipino Adobo Pork Shoulder with Vinegar and Garlic
Savor the bold flavors of the Philippines with this classic adobo recipe, featuring tender pork shoulder marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane sugar)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork shoulder, vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Add the bay leaf and cover the pot.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Malaysian Curry Pork Shoulder with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tender fall-apart texture of pork shoulder, all wrapped up in a spicy Malaysian curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk, cover the pot, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Indonesian Sambal Pork Shoulder with Lemongrass
Experience the bold flavors of Indonesia with this aromatic and spicy sambal pork shoulder recipe, infused with the freshness of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup sambal chili paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a blender, combine lemongrass, garlic, onion, and sambal chili paste. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, mix together pork shoulder chunks, blended mixture, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), palm sugar, and white pepper. Mix well to coat evenly.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork mixture and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the wok or skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Singaporean Chili Pork Shoulder with Lime Leaves
A classic Singaporean dish that combines the rich flavors of pork shoulder with a spicy and tangy chili paste, all wrapped up with the freshness of lime leaves. This hearty and aromatic dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup chili paste (such as sambal oelek)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 lime, juiced and leaves chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, chili paste, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and lime juice.
2. Add the chopped lime leaves and onion slices on top of the pork mixture.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Taiwanese Five-Spice Pork Shoulder Stew
A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of pork shoulder, five-spice powder, and a blend of Asian spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup pork broth or chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork cubes, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if necessary, then sauté the onion until softened.
4. Add garlic, ginger, five-spice powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the browned pork, diced tomatoes, and broth. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cambodian Pork Shoulder Soup with Tamarind
This hearty soup is a staple of Cambodian cuisine, rich in flavor and nutrition. The combination of slow-cooked pork shoulder, aromatic spices, and tangy tamarind creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour in water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
4. Stir in tamarind paste and fish sauce (if using).
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Laotian Lemongrass-Marinated Pork Shoulder
Experience the bold flavors of Laos with this aromatic pork shoulder recipe, marinated in a zesty lemongrass and chili pepper mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup lemongrass stalks, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the pork shoulder for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours, depending on size and cooking method
Burmese Pork Shoulder Curry with Turmeric
This recipe is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional Burmese curry, featuring tender pork shoulder cooked in a rich turmeric-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Kimchi Pork Shoulder Stew
This hearty stew combines tender pork shoulder with the bold flavors of kimchi, a traditional Korean fermented vegetable condiment. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder cubes over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped kimchi, soy sauce, Gochujang, sugar, beef broth, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and kimchi, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Chinese Char Siu Pork Shoulder with Honey Glaze
A classic Cantonese dish that’s sweet and savory, this char siu pork shoulder is glazed to perfection with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and five-spice powder.
3. Add the pork strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Pork Shoulder Banh Mi Sandwich Filling
This classic Vietnamese sandwich filling is a delicious combination of tender pork, pickled carrots and daikon, crunchy vegetables, and creamy mayo. Perfect for banh mi sandwiches or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
2. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
3. Stir in pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, and garlic.
4. Spoon the filling onto banh mi bread and top with mayonnaise.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Asia with these 18 mouthwatering pork shoulder recipes. From braised dishes to BBQs and stir-fries, this diverse collection spans countries like China, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, and more. Enjoy slow-cooked Asian pork shoulder with star anise and cinnamon, spicy Korean-style BBQ, or Vietnamese caramelized pork shoulder with fish sauce. Each recipe is a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for a special occasion, these recipes have got you covered.
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