how many pounds of pork shoulder to feed 100

2 min read 16-01-2025

how many pounds of pork shoulder to feed 100

Planning a large event with pulled pork? Figuring out how much pork shoulder to buy can be tricky. This guide breaks down how to calculate the right amount to feed 100 people, ensuring everyone gets their fill of delicious pulled pork.

Estimating Pulled Pork Needs

The key to accurate calculations lies in understanding serving sizes and shrinkage. Pork shoulder, also known as Boston butt, shrinks significantly during the cooking process. You'll lose about 30-40% of the weight through rendering fat and moisture.

Average Serving Size: A generous serving of pulled pork is typically 6-8 ounces (170-227 grams). For a crowd of 100, aiming for the higher end is wise to ensure satisfaction.

Shrinkage Factor: Remember that 30-40% weight loss. We'll use 35% as a middle ground for our calculations.

Calculating the Pork Shoulder Weight

Here's a step-by-step calculation:

Desired Serving Size: Let's aim for an 8-ounce serving per person.
Total Ounces Needed: 100 people x 8 ounces/person = 800 ounces
Total Pounds Needed (Pre-Cooking): 800 ounces / 16 ounces/pound = 50 pounds
Accounting for Shrinkage: 50 pounds / (1 - 0.35) = 77 pounds (approximately)

Therefore, you should plan to buy approximately 77 pounds of pork shoulder to feed 100 people generously.

Factors to Consider

Several factors can influence the final amount you need:

Appetizers and Sides: If you're serving other substantial dishes alongside the pulled pork, you can slightly reduce the amount of pork. People might eat less pulled pork if there are plenty of other options.
Guest Appetite: Consider your guests. Are they known for large appetites? If so, err on the side of caution and buy a bit more.
Leftovers: Do you want leftovers? If so, add an extra 10-15% to your calculation.
Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork shoulders weigh more but yield less usable meat after cooking. Boneless shoulders are more efficient, but slightly less flavorful.

Buying in Bulk

Purchasing such a large quantity of pork shoulder might require contacting a local butcher or meat wholesaler. They can often provide better pricing and ensure you get the quality you need for your event.

Cooking Tips for Large Quantities

Cooking a large amount of pork shoulder requires careful planning. Consider using multiple slow cookers or smokers to ensure even cooking. Proper temperature control is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful pulled pork.

Conclusion

Feeding 100 people pulled pork requires careful planning and accurate calculations. By considering serving size, shrinkage, and other factors, you can confidently estimate the amount of pork shoulder you need and ensure a successful and delicious event. Remember, it's always better to have a little extra than to run short!