The great benefit of the pork shoulder is its' layers of fat, making it a wonderful cut for slow roasting. It is sometimes referred to as the "butt," which comes from the old English definition for "the widest part." Pork shoulder is sold bone-in and boneless, with and without the thickest layer of fat on top. Because of the complex bone structure of the shoulder, boneless cuts end up in strange shapes that are best rolled and tied into a uniformly shaped roast.

Although a marinade is a good way to tenderize meat, in the case of pork shoulder, a long and slow cooking method is still needed to create a tender result. Focus on infusing flavor when marinating pork shoulder, as its' mild and fatty flavor can easily adopt exciting tastes.

Popular in Cuba and Puerto Rico, this potent combination of citrus and garlic is often named Pernil Asado. There are many variations to this basic recipe:

Puree 1 tablespoon each of ground cumin and dried oregano with 2 heads of garlic and 2 tablespoons of orange juice. If the mixture is too dry, add more orange juice 1 teaspoon at a time. Mix in salt and pepper to taste and rub the puree all over the pork roast. With the seasoned roast in a bowl, pour over 1 3/4 cup of orange juice and 2 cups of lime juice, cover, and marinate at least 6 hours or overnight.

This marinade is for spice lovers. The pork can later be roasted with sweet flavors, like pineapple, to balance out the heat. In a bowl, combine:

• 2 tablespoons salt
  
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
  
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  
• 1/4 cup Sriracha
  

Rub the mixture all over the pork, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours.

This marinade can be adjusted to suit any spice level. In a blender or food processor, puree together:

• 1/2 head garlic
  
• 2-inch piece of ginger
  
• 1/2 cup sake
  
• 1/2 cup rice wine
  
• 1/2 cup hot pepper paste (add less or omit for a less spicy marinade)
  
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  

Coat the pork roast with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

Mustard pairs beautifully with pork. Simply mix together 1/4 cup each of dijon and whole grain mustard with 1 tablespoon each of chopped thyme and softened butter and the grated zest of one lemon. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding 1/8 cup of maple syrup or balsamic vinegar to this basic recipe. Coat the roast in the mixture and marinate for at least 6 hours.