How Long Should You Roast Pickled Pork for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness?

Pickled pork, also known as corned pork, is a delicious and traditional meat option. The brining process gives the pork great flavor. However, roasting this unique cut of meat requires some special considerations to get it just right. Follow these tips on roast times, temperatures, and techniques for tender, juicy pickled pork every time.

What is Pickled Pork?

Pickled pork is fresh pork that has been cured in a salt and spice brine, which both flavors and preserves the meat. Other common names for this cured delicacy include corned pork pickled pork roast and brined pork shoulder.

The pork is submerged in the salty brining liquid for 4-10 days This allows the seasoning to infuse deep into the meat It also firms up the texture. Once brined, the pork is ready to be roasted for a hearty, old-fashioned meal.

Compared to regular fresh pork, pickled pork has a more dense, firm texture with a tangy, salty flavor. When roasted, it becomes wonderfully tender and juicy. The brining process makes it perfect for roasting, as the saltiness keeps it nice and moist.

How Long to Roast a Small Pickled Pork Roast

For a 2-3 lb boneless pickled pork roast, the roast time will be fairly quick compared to larger cuts Plan on

• 25-35 minutes per pound at 325°F

So for a 3 lb roast, roast for about 90 minutes total.

Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches an internal temp of 145°F when done. Then tent with foil and let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing.

How Long to Roast a Large Pickled Pork Roast

Bigger roasts over 4 lbs will need more time in the oven. Follow these approximate guidelines:

• 4-6 lb roast:
  • Cook 20 minutes per lb at 325°F
  • Total time: 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours
• 6-8 lb roast:
  • Cook 15 minutes per lb at 325°F
  • Total time: 2 – 2 1⁄2 hours

So a 6 lb pickled pork roast will need about 1 hour and 45 minutes in the oven at 325°F.

Again, use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temp hits 145°F when finished cooking.

Should You Roast at High or Low Temp?

The perfect roasting temp for pickled pork is 325-350°F. This relatively low roasting temperature helps the meat stay tender and juicy rather than drying out.

While you can roast pickled pork at up to 400°F, the higher heat will cause the exterior to overcook and dry out before the inside is cooked through. Stick to 325-350°F for the ideal texture.

To Baste or Not to Baste?

Basting helps keep roasted meat nice and moist. However, with pickled pork there’s no need to baste.

The salty brining liquid already helps the pork retain moisture and prevents it from drying out. Basting with extra liquid will just make the exterior soggy.

Simply rub the roast with oil, season it, and pop it straight into the oven. No basting required!

Should You Tent with Foil?

Tenting the roast with foil while it rests is highly recommended.

Covering the pork with foil as soon as it comes out of the oven will:

• Keep it piping hot.
• Allow it to continue cooking gently from residual heat.
• Prevent the exterior from drying out.

Leave it tented for a good 10-15 minutes before removing the foil and slicing.

What’s the Best Way to Prepare Pickled Pork for Roasting?

Proper prep ensures your pickled pork roast comes out perfectly cooked. Here are some tips:

• Rinse off the brine. Give the pork a quick rinse under cool water before roasting. This removes excess surface salt.

• Pat it dry. Wipe the meat with paper towels to remove moisture. Dry surface = better browning.

• Coat with oil. Rub the pork all over with oil. This helps promote crispy, caramelized exterior.

• Season generously. Flavor it up! Garlic powder, rosemary, smoked paprika, thyme all pair well with pickled pork.

• Roast in a shallow pan. Use a roasting pan just slightly larger than the roast. The sides should come up just halfway.

• Roast it uncovered. Don’t tent or cover while cooking. This allows the exterior to brown.

• Rest before slicing. Let it rest 10-15 minutes tented in foil before cutting.

What’s the Best Way to Use Leftover Pickled Pork?

Like any roast, you’ll likely have leftover pickled pork after the initial meal. Here are some tasty ways to use up those leftovers:

• Slice and pile onto sandwiches or paninis.
• Dice or shred into fried rice, pasta dishes, or omelets.
• Chop into cubes for hearty stews or potato hash.
• Pair with eggs for a protein packed breakfast.
• Slice thin and enjoy on charcuterie or cheese boards.

Stored properly in the fridge, roasted pickled pork will keep well for 4-5 days. The tangy flavor makes it endlessly versatile for quick meals and snacks all week long.

With the right roasting time and a little prep, pickled pork roast can be fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor. For the perfect roast, allow at least 25-35 minutes per pound, roast at 325°F, and let the meat rest before slicing. In no time, you’ll be enjoying delicious old-fashioned pickled pork.