Questions about Pork Loin

[Rudyfo]

Big game this weekend Iowa versus Iowa St. and I am going to bring the main course...smoked pork loin. My question is I do not have a shelter for my smoker and it is suppose to rain the next two days. I am gong to make my loins, 18 pounds worth, on Thursday. I will cut them up into slices and put into a crock pot to take to the party. The questions I have are:

1. Should I add water to the crock pot or is there something else I can add that won't take away from the taste.
2. My thermometer says pork should cook until an IT of 170 degrees is reached. I have read on here some people cook pork to an IT reading of 150-160. Any suggestions here??
3. How long do you think it will take to do 18 pounds worth of loin? I will cut them in half so I will have a four loins at 4.5 pounds a piece.

Thanks guys!!!

[FLBentRider]

I routinely take pork loin to 145-150F
As far as a liquid to reheat in, are you going to use a run Rub, you could add some of the rub to some broth, wine or apple cider or rice wine vinegar.

I don't see those loins going more than six hours, even with that load. I would rotate racks or watch the lower racks, they will be done sooner.

[Rudyfo]

Thanks Rider! What do you mean by a run? I am planning on putting a rub on them. Also, what temp should I cook them at? 230 or is that too high?

[FLBentRider]

Thanks Rider! What do you mean by a run? I am planning on putting a rub on them. Also, what temp should I cook them at? 230 or is that too high?

Fixed. tired fingers.

[FLBentRider]

Also, what temp should I cook them at? 230 or is that too high?

IMHO, there is not a lot of connective tissue to break down in a loin, 230 (or 225F -250F) would be fine.

[Smokeville]

I agree with FLBentRider. Take them to 145F. After sitting a bit, wrap and put them whole in the fridge. They will still be very nicely pink inside which is good.

When ready to use, slice very thin and finish each piece quickly (hyper-fast) on the grill to get grill marks. Serve on a bun. You will be a hero. I did 9 of these things - about 55 lb with bones out - for July 1 Canada Day and for 70 people we went through 4 of them. I started 3 days before and smoked 3 each day. They smoke pretty quick all things considered. Keep a close eye on all the best pork cuts.

Rich