When the temperature drops or you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and utterly satisfying, nothing quite compares to a steaming bowl of pork shoulder soup. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that comes from slow-cooked pork. It’s the kind of meal that envelops you in warmth, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes the wait worthwhile.
Pork shoulder, a wonderfully flavorful cut of meat, is often underappreciated for its versatility. It’s perfect for slow cooking, where the fat and collagen break down, creating a tender and juicy result. Paired with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich broth, it’s the foundation for a soup that feels like home. So, whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this pork shoulder soup will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the recipe, ingredients, and tips for making this soup a showstopper.
Pork Shoulder Soup Recipe
This pork shoulder soup recipe is all about simplicity, comfort, and flavor. The ingredients meld together in a slow simmer, allowing the pork shoulder to release its rich juices and blend perfectly with the vegetables. The result is a hearty, filling soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
- Pork Shoulder (bone-in or boneless): About 2-3 pounds. A bone-in cut adds extra flavor and richness.
- Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Carrots bring natural sweetness and a nice texture to the soup.
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped. Celery adds a bit of crunch and depth to the broth.
- Onion: 1 large, diced. The onion is the flavor base for the soup, providing a savory sweetness once cooked.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. A must for depth and aromatic richness.
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped (or 1 can of diced tomatoes). They offer a slight tang and balance out the richness of the pork.
- Potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and diced. Potatoes add body to the soup and absorb all the flavors beautifully.
- Broth: 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. A good broth is the foundation of any great soup. It should be rich and flavorful.
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Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Bay Leaves: 2. They add a subtle earthy aroma to the broth.
- Olive Oil: For searing the pork shoulder.
- Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped, for garnish. Adds a touch of brightness and color to the soup before serving.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Pork Shoulder
Start by seasoning your pork shoulder with salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and oregano. Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork shoulder to the pot and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for locking in flavor.
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Sauté The Vegetables
Remove the pork shoulder and set it aside. In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary. Toss in the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent.
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Deglaze The Pot
Pour in a small splash of broth (or water) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will infuse the soup.
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Add The Tomatoes And Broth
Once the pot is deglazed, add the chopped tomatoes and the rest of the broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Return The Pork Shoulder
Place the seared pork shoulder back into the pot along with the bay leaves. Cover the pot, reduce the heat, and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The goal is to let the pork become tender enough that it shreds easily.
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Add The Potatoes
About 30 minutes before the soup is done, add the diced potatoes. These will soften and absorb the delicious flavors from the pork and broth, making the soup even heartier.
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Shred The Pork
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard any bones (if using bone-in pork). Return the shredded pork to the pot.
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Final Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors fully come together.
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Garnish And Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Insights
- Pork Shoulder: This cut of meat is incredibly affordable and offers tons of flavor. The fat in pork shoulder breaks down beautifully when slow-cooked, infusing the soup with a rich, savory taste that’s hard to beat.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions form the classic ’mirepoix’ base for the soup. This combination of aromatic vegetables is a foundational building block in many soups and stews, adding sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Tomatoes: Whether fresh or canned, tomatoes provide acidity and balance to the soup, cutting through the richness of the pork and creating a more complex flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme, oregano, and bay leaves are the go-to herbs for this type of dish. They bring out the earthy flavors of the pork without overpowering the soup. Paprika adds a mild smokiness that complements the other spices.
Expert Tips
- Searing the Pork: Don’t skip the searing step. It adds a ton of flavor and creates a depth that slow-cooking alone can’t achieve. The browned bits in the pot contribute to a richer broth.
- Layering Flavors: If you want an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice towards the end of cooking. The acidity helps to balance the soup’s richness.
- Bone-In vs. Boneless Pork Shoulder: While bone-in pork shoulder takes longer to cook, it adds more flavor to the soup as the bone infuses the broth. If you’re in a rush, boneless pork shoulder works just as well.
- Freezing and Storing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Make a double batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, and it’ll taste just as good as the first time!
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: For those who like a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili flakes when sautéing the vegetables. The spiciness will build as the soup simmers.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap the regular paprika for smoked paprika to give the soup a deeper, smokier profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the pork shoulder with hearty mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup. Add some extra seasoning to make sure the broth has enough depth.
- Asian Twist: Infuse your soup with ginger, soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar for an Asian-inspired flavor. Top with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Final Words
Pork shoulder soup is one of those dishes that will leave you craving more every time. The slow-cooked meat, tender vegetables, and savory broth are the definition of comfort food. It’s simple yet packed with flavors that develop over time. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile-whether you stick to the classic recipe or switch it up with variations, you can’t go wrong.
FAQs
What Is The Best Cut Of Pork For Making Pork Shoulder Soup?
The best cut for pork shoulder soup is a bone-in pork shoulder, also known as pork butt. This cut is marbled with fat, which helps create a flavorful and tender broth when slow-cooked.
How Long Should I Cook Pork Shoulder For Soup?
The pork shoulder should be cooked for at least 2 to 3 hours if simmered on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. The meat should be tender and easily shred when done.
Can I Use Pork Shoulder Roast Instead Of Pork Shoulder For Soup?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder roast for the soup. The key is to use a cut of pork that has enough fat to produce a rich, flavorful broth. It may need slightly less cooking time than a traditional pork shoulder.
Do I Need To Brown The Pork Shoulder Before Adding It To The Soup?
While it’s not strictly necessary, browning the pork shoulder before adding it to the soup enhances its flavor. Searing the meat helps to develop a rich, caramelized crust, which adds depth to the overall taste of the soup.
What Vegetables Should I Add To Pork Shoulder Soup?
Common vegetables to add include onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. These vegetables complement the rich flavor of the pork and help create a well-rounded soup base.
Can I Make Pork Shoulder Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, a slow cooker is ideal for making pork shoulder soup. Simply add the ingredients, set the cooker to low, and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours until the pork is tender and easy to shred.
What Seasonings Go Well With Pork Shoulder Soup?
Common seasonings for pork shoulder soup include salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, cumin, and paprika. You can also add chili flakes for a touch of heat or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish.
Can I Freeze Pork Shoulder Soup?
Yes, pork shoulder soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Shoulder For Soup?
Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder for soup. While bone-in pork provides a richer broth, boneless pork is still a great option and will produce a tender and flavorful soup.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Pork Shoulder Soup?
Pork shoulder soup can be served on its own with crusty bread or paired with a side salad. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.