Pork Picnic for pulled pork

[bpiela]

Does anyone take the skin off the pork picnic before smoking? I was thinking I would have more bark if I got rid of the skin and the fat underneath. I have never tried the skin so I don't know if I am making a huge mistake or not. Most videos I have seen keep the skin on. Thanks in advance.

[Huskee]

I recommend removing it and the exterior fat cap. Some folks will leave fat caps on pork butts/picnics, but IMO there's enough fat inside pork shoulders that you just don't need that extra on the outside like you would on a brisket. More bark and less wads of fat in your mouth! You can use the skin & fat to make Meathead's Cracklins: https://amazingribs.com/tested-recip...acklins-recipe

[Sweaty Paul]

+1

[bpiela]

I recommend removing it and the exterior fat cap. Some folks will leave fat caps on pork butts/picnics, but IMO there's enough fat inside pork shoulders that you just don't need that extra on the outside like you would on a brisket. More bark and less wads of fat in your mouth! You can use the skin & fat to make Meathead's Cracklins: https://amazingribs.com/tested-recip...acklins-recipe

Forgot about the cracklins. I will have to give that a try next time.

[fuzzydaddy]

I love bark and agree with Huskee. For a sample...on a small area of the butt leave the fat on and score it into about 1” squares. It is mighty tasty.

[Huskee]

I gotta try that. I've seen you mention it before but I never remember on prep day.