If you’re craving succulent and tender pork butt but don’t have all day to slow cook it, a pressure cooker can be a game-changer. A pressure cooker allows you to cook pork butt in a fraction of the time while still yielding amazing results.
Pork butt, also known as pork shoulder, is a flavorful and versatile cut of meat that’s perfect for slow cooking or braising. When cooked in a pressure cooker, the intense heat and pressure help break down the tough connective tissues in the meat, resulting in fork-tender pork.
So, how long does it take to cook pork butt in a pressure cooker? Typically, you’ll want to cook a pork butt weighing around 4-5 pounds for about 60-75 minutes. This cooking time may vary depending on the specific pressure cooker you have and the desired tenderness of the meat.
It’s important to note that cooking times can vary, and it’s always best to refer to your pressure cooker’s manual for specific instructions and cooking times.
Once the cooking time is up, it’s recommended to allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure manually. This resting period allows the meat to continue cooking and become even more tender.
Remember, always use caution when working with a pressure cooker to avoid steam burns, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.
With a pressure cooker, you can enjoy the deliciousness of pork butt in a fraction of the time it would take through traditional cooking methods. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the mouthwatering results!
How to cook pork butt in a pressure cooker
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook pork butt, using a pressure cooker is the way to go. With a pressure cooker, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful pork butt in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds of pork butt
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Trim the excess fat from the pork butt and cut it into chunks.
- Heat the vegetable oil in the pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pressure cooker and cook until they are softened.
- Add the pork butt chunks to the pressure cooker and brown them on all sides.
- Once the pork butt is browned, add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pressure cooker.
- Close the pressure cooker lid and set the cooking time to 60 minutes on high pressure.
- After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before using the quick release valve to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and carefully remove the pork butt from the pressure cooker.
- Shred the pork butt using two forks and discard any excess fat.
- Place the shredded pork butt back into the pressure cooker and add your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Stir well to coat the pork butt with the barbecue sauce.
- Close the pressure cooker lid again and cook on high pressure for an additional 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes before using the quick release valve.
- Open the lid and give the pork butt a final stir.
- Serve the delicious and tender pork butt on buns, in tacos, or however you like!
Using a pressure cooker to cook pork butt not only saves time, but it also helps to infuse the meat with flavors. The result is a delicious and tender pork butt that will be the star of any meal. Enjoy!
Preparing the pork butt
Before cooking the pork butt in a pressure cooker, it is important to properly prep the meat to ensure the best results. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Trim excess fat
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork butt. While some fat can add flavor and juiciness to the meat, removing excessive amounts will prevent an overly greasy final dish.
2. Season the pork butt
Season the pork butt generously with your desired spices and herbs. Common seasonings for pork butt include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also use a dry rub or marinade to add flavor.
3. Allow the pork butt to marinate (optional)
If you have time, let the seasoned pork butt marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will further enhance the flavor of the meat. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step.
4. Sear the pork butt (optional)
For added flavor and texture, you can sear the pork butt before pressure cooking it. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the meat on all sides until nicely browned. This step is optional but highly recommended to achieve a delicious caramelized crust.
5. Prepare the pressure cooker
Make sure your pressure cooker is clean and in good working condition. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding liquid to the pressure cooker, as this will help create the necessary steam for cooking the pork butt.
Once you have completed these steps, you’ll be ready to cook your pork butt to perfection in the pressure cooker.
Seasoning the pork butt
Before cooking your pork butt in a pressure cooker, it’s important to season it well to enhance its flavor. Here is a simple seasoning recipe to try:
Ingredients | Amount |
---|---|
Paprika | 2 tablespoons |
Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | 2 teaspoons |
Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
To season the pork butt, combine all the spices in a small bowl and mix well. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork butt, making sure to evenly coat all sides. You can let the seasoned pork butt sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Once the pork butt is seasoned, you are ready to cook it in the pressure cooker. Follow the recommended cooking times and instructions for your specific pressure cooker model to ensure the pork butt is cooked to perfection.
Setting up the pressure cooker
Before you begin cooking your pork butt in a pressure cooker, it’s important to properly set up the cooker to ensure a safe and efficient cooking process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Ensure the pressure cooker is clean and free from any residue or food particles that could affect the cooking process.
- Attach the pressure cooker lid securely to the pot, making sure the rubber gasket is properly in place.
- Place the pork butt inside the pressure cooker, ensuring that it fits comfortably without being too tightly packed.
- Add the desired amount of cooking liquid, such as broth or water, to the pressure cooker. The liquid should be enough to cover about a third of the pork butt.
- Double-check that the pressure release valve is in the correct position. It should be set to the sealed or locked position.
- Plug in the pressure cooker and set the cooking time and pressure level according to your recipe or the recommended guidelines for cooking pork butt in a pressure cooker.
- Allow the pressure cooker to preheat and build up pressure before the cooking time begins. This may take several minutes, depending on the model and size of the pressure cooker.
Once the pressure cooker is properly set up, you can start the cooking process and enjoy the delicious results of your tender and flavorful pork butt.
Cooking the pork butt
Once you have prepared your pork butt by trimming off excess fat and seasoning it with your choice of spices, you are ready to cook it in the pressure cooker.
Step 1: Searing the pork butt
Before pressure cooking the pork butt, it is recommended to sear it to enhance the flavor. Heat some oil in the pressure cooker on the sauté mode and add the pork butt. Sear it on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust. Remove the pork butt from the pressure cooker and set it aside.
Step 2: Adding liquid and seasonings
After searing the pork butt, add liquid to the pressure cooker. This can be water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid should cover about one-third of the pork butt. Add your desired seasonings, such as garlic, onions, herbs, or spices, to enhance the flavor of the pork.
Step 3: Pressure cooking the pork butt
Place the seared pork butt back into the pressure cooker and close the lid securely. Set the pressure cooker to high pressure and adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pork butt and the desired tenderness. As a general guideline, cook the pork butt for around 15-20 minutes per pound.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 10-15 minutes before using the quick release to release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid and check the internal temperature of the pork butt using a meat thermometer. It should read at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Note: If the pork butt is not tender enough after the initial cooking time, you can return it to the pressure cooker and cook it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Once the pork butt is fully cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the pressure cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Q&A
How long should I cook pork butt in a pressure cooker?
The cooking time for pork butt in a pressure cooker depends on the size of the meat and the desired tenderness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 2-pound pork butt on high pressure for about 60-75 minutes.
What is the recommended cooking time for a 5-pound pork butt in a pressure cooker?
If you are cooking a 5-pound pork butt in a pressure cooker, it will generally take around 90-105 minutes on high pressure to ensure it is tender and fully cooked. However, cooking times may vary, so it’s always best to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Can I cook pork butt in a pressure cooker for too long?
While it’s important to cook pork butt in a pressure cooker for long enough to make it tender, overcooking can lead to a dry and stringy texture. It’s recommended to follow a specific cooking time based on the size of the meat to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to cook pork butt in a pressure cooker in under an hour?
Cooking pork butt in a pressure cooker in under an hour is not recommended. The pork butt needs time to tenderize and develop its flavors. Trying to cook it too quickly may result in tough and unpalatable meat. It’s best to follow the recommended cooking times for optimal results.