Imagine sinking your fork into a generous cut of succulent roasted pork shoulder, its exterior boasting a deeply browned, crispy crust that yields to a tender, flavorful interior. This is a dish designed to impress, a showstopper perfect for gatherings or a special family meal. Seeking out a bone-in shoulder is highly recommended.

The bone acts as a natural insulator during the long roasting process, helping to distribute heat evenly and retain precious moisture within the meat. This slow roasting technique, spanning six hours, coaxes out an incredible depth of flavor and creates that coveted crispy, browned exterior. Before roasting, the pork shoulder is generously marinated in a vibrant blend of garlic and lemon, complemented by a touch of soy sauce for a subtle umami richness.

The lemon not only imparts a bright, zesty flavor but also aids in tenderizing the meat, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The marinade infuses the pork with layers of complexity, creating a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and subtly salty notes. After its extended time in the oven, the pork shoulder emerges transformed, its fibers tenderized to perfection.

The meat becomes incredibly versatile. Enjoy it sliced and served as the centerpiece of a grand feast, or shred it to create mouthwatering tacos, flavorful sandwiches, or hearty salads. The possibilities are endless.

The recipe calls for a five-pound raw pork shoulder. Please use a five-pound raw pork shoulder for optimal cooking results and flavor. Expect the meat to shrink during the roasting process.

While the initial weight is five pounds, the final cooked weight will be approximately three pounds.