There are a few common reasons why pork shoulder can turn out tough when cooked in an Instant Pot.
Overcooking
One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the pork shoulder. The Instant Pot cooks very quickly under pressure, so pork shoulder only needs a fraction of the time compared to conventional cooking methods. Most pork shoulder recipes recommend cooking for 45-60 minutes in the Instant Pot. Going over this time will likely lead to dried out, tough meat.
It can be tempting to cook pork shoulder even longer thinking it will become more tender. But the opposite happens – the meat fibers get overcooked and tighten up instead of breaking down. Be sure to stick to the recommended cooking times when using your Instant Pot.
Not Enough Liquid
Having the right amount of liquid is key when pressure cooking pork shoulder. The Instant Pot needs enough liquid to generate steam and build up pressure. Most recipes call for at least 1 cup of liquid when cooking a 2-3 lb pork shoulder.
If there is not enough liquid in the pot, it can prevent the Instant Pot from pressurizing properly. The pork may end up steaming instead of braising in the liquid. This leads to drier, tougher meat.
Always make sure to add sufficient liquid like broth, water, juice, or wine when cooking pork shoulder. The liquid should come up at least halfway up the sides of the meat.
Wrong Size or Cut
Pork shoulder is a large, tough cut of meat that benefits greatly from moist cooking methods like braising. Smaller cuts of pork or very lean pork may not turn out as tender in the Instant Pot.
Pork loin, for example, has very little fat or connective tissue. Pressure cooking can make lean cuts like loin or tenderloin dry and tough.
For best results, choose a well-marbled boneless pork shoulder roast or pork butt. Leave it whole or cut it into large 2-3 inch chunks before pressure cooking.
Not Enough Fat Cap
Pork shoulder has a large fat cap running along one side of the meat. This fat renders down during cooking, basting the meat and keeping it nice and moist. Removing too much of the fat cap can lead to a drier, tougher finished dish.
Leave a 1/4 to 1/2 inch layer of fat on the pork shoulder before cooking. The fat will melt and break down in the Instant Pot, adding flavor and tenderness to the meat.
Didn’t Use Natural Release
Releasing the pressure immediately after cooking pork shoulder can cause it to seize up and toughen. This is especially true if the meat was cooked for a long time.
Always allow the pressure to release naturally when cooking tougher meats like pork shoulder. This gives the meat time to relax and reabsorb some of the cooking liquid. Releasing the pressure too quickly can disrupt this process and lead to drier, tougher results.
Didn’t Rest Before Serving
Pork shoulder cooked in an Instant Pot needs time to rest just like conventionally cooked roasts. Resting allows the juices to redistribute through the meat.
Skipping this important step means those juices end up on the cutting board instead of in the pork. Be sure to let the cooked pork shoulder rest at least 10-15 minutes before slicing into it.
Using the Wrong Pressure Setting
Some Instant Pot models have different pressure settings. For tender, fall-apart pork shoulder, cook on high pressure.
The lower pressure setting may not get hot enough to properly breakdown the collagen and connective tissues. Stick to high pressure whenever cooking tough cuts of meat.
Didn’t Brown the Meat First
Browning pork shoulder before pressure cooking adds a ton of flavor. The Maillard reaction gives the pork a rich, caramelized crust.
Skip this step and the pork can turn out bland and pale. While not necessary, searing the meat first really takes the dish to the next level.
How to Avoid Tough Pork Shoulder in the Instant Pot
Here are some tips to ensure tender, fall-apart pork shoulder every time:
- Never cook pork shoulder longer than 60 minutes under pressure
- Add at least 1 cup broth, water, or other liquid
- Use a well-marbled boneless pork butt or shoulder roast
- Leave a 1/4 to 1/2 inch fat cap intact
- Allow natural pressure release
- Let pork rest 10-15 minutes before serving
- Cook on high pressure setting
- Sear or brown meat first for added flavor
Common Pork Shoulder Instant Pot Recipes
Here are some tasty Instant Pot pork shoulder recipes to try:
Pulled Pork
Fall-apart tender pulled pork is easy to make in the Instant Pot. Rub a pork shoulder with spices, add some liquid like broth or beer, and pressure cook. Once cooked, the pork shreds easily for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, etc.
Carnitas
Instant Pot carnitas are incredibly flavorful with crispy edges and tender interior. Cook seasoned pork with orange juice and chicken broth. The citrus adds a tangy flavor while the pressure cooker keeps the meat moist.
Pork Chile Verde
Pork shoulder stewed in a flavorful green chili sauce is so comforting. Add tomatillos, green chiles, cilantro, and spices to the Instant Pot for a tasty one-pot meal.
Pork Pozole
This Mexican soup comes together quickly in the pressure cooker. Cook pork with hominy, onions, garlic, and pozole seasoning. Top with all the fixings like cabbage, radishes, avocado, and lime.
Pork Ragu
Using pork shoulder makes for an indulgent, meaty ragu for pasta. Cook pork with tomatoes, red wine, and herbs in the Instant Pot. Simmer the sauce with pasta for an easy weeknight dinner.
Pork Adobo
This Filipino classic combines pork shoulder, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and soy sauce for a tangy braise. The Instant Pot concentrates the flavors for addictively delicious meat.
Pork and Sauerkraut Soup
Tender pork and tangy sauerkraut combine for a comforting pressure cooker soup. Potatoes, carrots, and broth round out this hearty winter favorite.
Pork Shoulder and Sweet Potato Hash
Cook cubes of pork shoulder with sweet potatoes, onion, and spices in the Instant Pot. The meat and potatoes steam together for a simple, fuss-free one pot meal.
Tips for Instant Pot Pork Shoulder
Follow these tips for foolproof pork shoulder every time:
- Use a whole bone-in or boneless pork butt/shoulder roast between 2-4 pounds.
- Trim off any large fat pockets but leave a 1/4 inch fat cap.
- Cut meat into large 2-3 inch chunks for faster cooking.
- Brown the pork first for better flavor. Use sauté mode on Instant Pot.
- Add at least 1 cup broth, water, wine, or juice to the pot.
- Season well with salt, pepper, garlic, herbs, etc.
- High pressure for 45-60 minutes with natural release.
- Check for doneness after cooking. Meat should be very tender.
- Let pork rest 10-15 minutes before pulling/slicing.
- Save cooking liquid for serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of pork is best for the Instant Pot?
Pork shoulder, also called pork butt, is the best option. It has the fat and collagen needed to break down and become tender. Other good choices are pork picnic shoulder or pork country-style ribs.
How much liquid do you need for Instant Pot pork shoulder?
Use at least 1 cup of liquid like broth, water, wine, or juice. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the meat.
How long do you cook pork shoulder in an Instant Pot?
Cook for 45-60 minutes on high pressure. Avoid going over 60 minutes to prevent overcooking. Let the pressure release naturally.
Why did my Instant Pot pork turn out dry?
Overcooking and not enough liquid are the two main reasons pork can turn out dry. Be careful not to exceed recommended cook times. Also make sure there is adequate liquid in the pot.
Do you sear pork before Instant Pot?
Browning pork shoulder before pressure cooking is recommended but optional. It adds deeper flavor and color to the meat.
Should pork shoulder rest after Instant Pot?
Yes, always let pork shoulder rest 10-15 minutes before pulling or slicing. This allows juices to redistribute through the meat.
Conclusion
With the right ingredients, cook times, and preparation pork shoulder can turn out incredibly moist, tender and flavorful using the Instant Pot. Key things like not overcooking, using enough liquid, natural release, and proper resting will help prevent a tough, dry finished dish. Follow the tips above and your Instant Pot pork shoulder will be fall-apart tender every time.