Boston Butt - fatside up or down

Harry · December 2008

I'm drawing a blank - and couldn't find this on a search. I haven't donethis in a few years

Does the fat side go up or down on the grill?

Thanks,
Harry

Celtic Wolf · December 2008

Pulled Pork

It's in there!!!

Harry · December 2008

Perfect - great article.
Thanks.

cigarstock · December 2008

I am not an eggspert but an egg novice. However, a local egger, which is the reason I am now one, is an official BBQ judge and goes everywhere judging. He told me last week to put the fat on the top side and let it, fat, go thru the meat. He says it is "the bomb" and he also has the gut to prove it. for what it is worth.

Rick

Fidel · December 2008

Nice theory, but the fat is not going to trickle down through the meat, but rather down and around the sides.

Me personally, I trim most of the external fat - but only out of my own personal preference. I prefer more bark mixed into my pulled pork.

And if guts are a true indicator, my BBQ must be fairly tasty too. :woohoo:

Celtic Wolf · December 2008

Fat does NOT and I repeat does NOT penetrate the meat. It flows over the top and down the sides.

Course I got my information from several well known and certified CHEFs

Including one that hangs out here..

Abelman · December 2008

My 2 cents, always down. It helps the meat against the heat, when it mealts, it goes to the drip pan, and you get a great bark on the top where it belongs. I love a good bark and it just doesn't happen as well at the bottom as a lot of that flavor will cook off with the fat melting and washing things off as it comes down the side of the meat.

Fat cap up does not make the meay more juicy. The fat does not seep into the meat. Whatever is left is cut off.

I do brisket fat cap down as well.

So, it's like the Hatfields and the McCoys, there will never be a deciding answer, it's all just personal preference.

stike · December 2008

fat doesn't seep through, and smoke doesn't penetrate...

lot of die-hard myths with barbecue, but it all turns out great either way, i think

FlaPoolman · December 2008

I'm with Fidel. Cut the cap off and toss it on the other egg for the dogs then cook the butt on either side.

cigarstock · December 2008

I am the first to tell ya....All I know is from you all. My mentor, the judge I mentioned, said this to me last week. Most of my cooks have been eggceptional...still learning and a wife undergoing chemo and has a taste of &*(^ currently. I thank all of you for your help. I am NOT trying to start controverey

Rick

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Boston Butt - fatside up or down

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