What best to use make pork tamales shoulder or butt?

* More Flavor: Pork shoulder has more intramuscular fat (marbling) than pork butt, which translates to richer flavor and juiciness. This is crucial for tamales as the meat gets cooked for a long time, and the fat helps keep it moist.

* Better Texture: Pork shoulder has a slightly tougher texture than pork butt, but this is actually advantageous for tamales. When cooked slowly, the collagen in the shoulder breaks down, resulting in a tender and flavorful shredded meat perfect for filling.

* Cost-Effective: Pork shoulder is generally less expensive than pork butt, making it a more budget-friendly option.

While pork butt can be used, it tends to be leaner and might end up drier in a tamale.

Pro tip: When choosing your pork shoulder, look for a cut with a good amount of marbling and a nice layer of fat. This will ensure your tamales are flavorful and moist.