How to Smoke Center Cut Pork

How to Smoke Center Cut Pork
Written By
Samantha Lowe
Samantha Lowe
Published: May 5, 2011
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
2 minute read

Boneless, center cut pork loin is where pork chops, one of America's favorite and most affordable cuts of meat, comes from. Center cut loin can be slightly tough if cooked at too high heat due to its lean nature, but it is flavorful and full of nutrients. Smoking the center cut is a way of both adding flavor and moisture to the meat. The cut takes minimal preparation and is the perfect centerpiece for a casual backyard barbecue or a formal dinner.

Rinse the meat thoroughly under running water. Pat it dry with paper towels, ensuring every crevice is reached. Discard the paper towels.

Cover the meat evenly with the dry rub. Press it in to the meat with your hands.

Cover the cut with the plastic wrap and insert it in to the fridge. Allow it to absorb the flavors for 24 hours.

Remove the meat from the fridge and bring it to room temperature. This should take about 30 to 45 minutes.

Pour the wood chips into the large bowl. Cover them with water until the chips are submerged by at least one inch. Soak the wood chips for one hour.

Drain the wood chips and insert them in to the designated pan in the smoker.

Turn the smoker to 275 degrees F and close the lid. Allow it to fill with smoke for 10 minutes before placing the meat on.

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Cook the meat for 3 hours, or when a meat thermometer inserted in to the thickest part of the meat, at its center, reads 155 degrees F. Replace the wood chips every 45 minutes while cooking.

Remove the cut and place it on a counter, tented with aluminum foil, to rest for 20 minutes before serving.

Samantha Lowe

Based in Kingston, Canada, Samantha Lowe has been writing for publication since 2006. She has written articles for the "Mars' Hill" newspaper and copy for various design projects. Her design and copy for the "Mars' Hill" won the Associated…

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