Chef John's Paper Pork Shoulder

Recipe View Preheat oven to 225 degrees F (110 degrees C). (5 minutes)

Recipe View In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Thoroughly rub the spice mixture onto all surfaces of the pork roast, ensuring it adheres well. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Cut a 4-foot piece of unbleached parchment paper. Place the roast at one end and tightly roll it in the parchment. Cut a second piece of parchment and roll the roast again, positioning it in the opposite direction for complete coverage. (10 minutes)

Recipe View Cut a long piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and tightly wrap the parchment-wrapped roast. Repeat with a second and third layer of foil, rotating the roast's position each time to ensure a secure seal. Place the wrapped roast in a roasting pan with the folded edges facing up to minimize potential leaks. (15 minutes)

Recipe View Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast until the pork is exceptionally tender, approximately 12 1/2 hours (or 1.75 hours per pound). (12.5 hours)

Recipe View Remove the pan from the oven and let the wrapped roast rest for at least 1 hour before unwrapping. Brush the roast with the accumulated juices found within the parchment paper for an extra boost of flavor and moisture. (1 hour)