Kaaren Thompson
Welcome to my evolving digital space—I’m Kaaren Thompson, an art educator, digital creator, and AI enthusiast sharing insights on art, technology, and everyday life.
Yes, there’s an extra A in my name.
You’re welcome.
Amazon Finds
I’m a self-proclaimed product nerd who loves finding the best stuff without breaking the bank. Saving money shouldn’t mean sacrificing what works. If it’s not good, I don’t share it. Period.
My YouTube Channels
Dogs, Art, Life … my YouTube channels.
Food and Kitchen
My favorite collection of recipes.
Cooking with AI - Burnt Ends - with Pork Shoulder
First Cook (Oven)
- Preheat the oven to 225°F.
- Cube 3.5 lbs pork shoulder into 1.5-inch pieces and pat dry.
- Toss the pork with a homemade rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Arrange pork cubes on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack.
- Cook uncovered for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Transfer to the Instant Pot
- Place the cooked pork cubes in the Instant Pot.
- Add:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2–3 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 tbsp butter, cubed
- Optional: 1/4 cup beer or broth for moisture.
- Set the Instant Pot to Manual (Pressure Cook) mode on High Pressure for 15–20 minutes.
- Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release the rest.
Final Finish
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (or use the broiler).
- Transfer the pork to an oven-safe pan and toss with extra BBQ sauce.
- Broil for 10–15 minutes until the edges caramelize and the sauce thickens.
- Let rest for 5 minutes and serve!
How I Use AI
In life, teaching, budgeting, cooking, and mental health.
Using YouTube
Sharing what I’ve learned when I have time … but real advise.