Best Easy Pork Burnt Ends Recipe Oven
If you’re a meat lover, you’ve probably heard of burnt ends. Traditionally made from beef brisket, burnt ends are flavorful, tender, and succulent pieces of meat that are a true delight to eat. However, if you’re looking for a change or want to offer your guests a different option, pork burnt ends are an excellent choice. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and delicious recipe to make pork burnt ends in the oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp paprika
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tbsp onion powder
– 1 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes.
3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Sprinkle the spice rub generously all over the pork cubes, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Place the seasoned pork cubes on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook for 2 hours.
7. While the pork is cooking, prepare the BBQ glaze by combining the BBQ sauce, honey, and butter in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined. Set aside.
8. After 2 hours of cooking, remove the pork from the oven and transfer the cubes to a large bowl.
9. Pour the BBQ glaze over the pork cubes and toss gently to coat them evenly.
10. Return the coated pork cubes to the wire rack on the baking sheet and place them back in the oven.
11. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C).
12. Once cooked, remove the pork burnt ends from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about this recipe:
1. Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork butt interchangeably. Both cuts work well for making tender and juicy burnt ends.
2. Can I use a different BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your favorite combination.
3. Can I make these pork burnt ends on a grill instead of in the oven?
Yes, you can. Simply follow the same steps until step 7, then transfer the pork cubes to a preheated grill and cook indirectly for 2 hours. After that, proceed with step 9.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make the pork burnt ends a day ahead and reheat them before serving. Just place them in a covered baking dish, refrigerate, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the pork burnt ends to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double or even triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
7. What sides go well with pork burnt ends?
Classic barbecue sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad are excellent choices to complement the smoky flavors of the pork burnt ends.
8. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, if you prefer a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub or BBQ glaze.
9. Can I use this recipe with beef brisket instead of pork shoulder?
Yes, you can follow the same steps using beef brisket instead of pork shoulder. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the brisket.
Enjoy these delicious and easy pork burnt ends straight out of your oven or grill. They make a fantastic addition to any barbecue or gathering, and your guests will surely be impressed with this mouthwatering dish!