The central consideration focuses on determining the optimal time for removing the wrapping from pork shoulder during the smoking process. This action significantly impacts the final product’s bark development and overall moisture content. Timing its removal either too early or too late can have undesirable consequences on the texture and flavor of the finished pulled pork.
The procedure is crucial to achieving a balance between a deeply flavorful, well-formed outer crust and the retention of moisture within the meat. Proper execution yields a superior product, celebrated for its tenderness and robust smoky taste. Historically, this technique has evolved through generations of barbecue pitmasters, each refining the method to suit personal preferences and equipment capabilities.