National Pork Butt Day

A person in a chef's hat, proudly holding a juicy pork butt on a smoking grill, surrounded by a backyard BBQ setup with friends enjoying the smoky aroma.. — National pork butt day illustration

Welcome to the wild world of National Pork Butt Day! Get ready for a smoky, savory adventure that will have your taste buds begging for more. This unique holiday is all about celebrating the deliciousness of pork butt and the art of slow cooking. So grab your apron and prepare for a lip-smacking journey through the history and mouthwatering recipes of National Pork Butt Day!

When is Pork Butt Day?

It's national pork butt day on the 13th June.

The Origins of National Pork Butt Day

Have you ever wondered how a humble cut of meat ended up with its own national holiday? Well, the story of National Pork Butt Day is as fascinating as it is delicious. It all started when a group of passionate barbecue enthusiasts decided to pay tribute to the often-underappreciated pork butt. They believed that this flavorful and versatile cut deserved its own day of recognition, and so National Pork Butt Day was born.

Since then, pork butt enthusiasts across the country have been firing up their grills and smokers on the second Saturday of June to honor this delectable cut of meat.

A Slow and Smoky Celebration

Celebrating National Pork Butt Day is all about embracing the slow and smoky art of barbecue. It's a day to gather with loved ones and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you with a belly full of happiness. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice backyard chef, there's no better time to brush up on your barbecue skills and whip up some mouthwatering pork butt recipes.

From classic pulled pork sandwiches to fall-off-the-bone ribs and juicy pork steaks, the possibilities are endless. You can marinate your pork butt in a tangy sauce, rub it with a flavorful spice blend, or simply let its natural flavors shine with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Then, slow cook it over low heat until it's tender, juicy, and packed with smoky goodness.

Remember, barbecue is not just about the food—it's also about the experience. So grab your favorite beverage, gather around the grill, and let the intoxicating aroma of sizzling pork take you on a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.

Did You Know?

Did you know that pork butt is not actually from the rear end of a pig? Despite its name, pork butt is cut from the upper part of the shoulder, also known as the pork shoulder or Boston butt. The term "butt" originated from the wooden barrels, called butts, that were used to store and transport the meat back in the day. So the next time you enjoy a delicious pork butt dish, you can impress your friends with this little porky trivia!

History behind the term 'Pork Butt'

1769

The Naming of Pork Butt

In 1769, early American colonists started using the term 'pork butt' to refer to the upper shoulder of a pig. This cut of meat was often packed into barrels called 'butts' for storage and transportation. The term 'butt' is derived from the Old English word 'buttuc,' which means a large cask or barrel.

1801

The First Recorded Use of the Term

The first documented use of the term 'pork butt' can be traced back to 1801. In an edition of the 'Farmer's Oracle' newspaper, an advertisement promoted pork weighing from 40 to 100 pounds. The advertisement specifically mentioned the 'butt end' or 'butt' of the pork, referring to the shoulder portion.

1900s

The Evolution of Culinary Language

Over time, the term 'pork butt' became more commonly used in culinary context rather than solely referring to the cut of meat. As cooking techniques evolved, barbecuing and smoking this particular cut of meat gained popularity, particularly in the southern United States. The term 'pork butt' began to be associated with slow-cooked, flavorful, and tender pork shoulder dishes.

1940s

Pork Butt in Barbecue Culture

During the 1940s, 'pork butt' became a staple in American barbecue culture. Pitmasters and backyard grill enthusiasts recognized the value of slow-cooking and smoking pork shoulder. The meat's marbling and connective tissue resulted in delicious and succulent pulled pork, ribs, and other barbecue specialties. Pork butt became synonymous with southern-style barbecue.

Today

Continued Popularity and Versatility

In the present day, 'pork butt' remains a beloved term in the culinary world. It is a versatile cut, used in a wide range of dishes, from traditional barbecue to stews, casseroles, and even tacos. The term's historical significance and cultural impact continue to shape how we appreciate and enjoy pork butt as a flavorful and iconic ingredient.