APPLE CIDER BRAISED PORK SHOULDER

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a comforting, fall-inspired dish that’s tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Slow-cooked in a blend of apple cider, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings, the pork shoulder becomes melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (4-5 lb/1.8-2.2 kg) pork shoulder roast (bone-in or boneless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups (480ml) apple cider (not vinegar)
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening the sauce)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
   • Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Pork:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Stir in the broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
5. Braise the Pork:
   • Return the pork shoulder to the pot, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Alternatively, you can braise it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for the same amount of time.
6. Finish the Sauce:
   • Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside to rest. Discard the bay leaves. If desired, thicken the sauce by stirring in the cornstarch slurry and simmering for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve:
   • Shred the pork or serve it in slices, topped with the rich apple cider sauce. Pair with your favorite sides for a delicious and hearty meal.

Notes

• Flavor Enhancements: Add a cinnamon stick or star anise to the braising liquid for a subtle warming spice.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed sweet potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts, or creamy polenta.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The pork tastes even better the next day. Prepare it ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings cozy, autumnal vibes to your table. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings!

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APPLE CIDER BRAISED PORK SHOULDER

A delicious and tender pork shoulder braised with apple cider and a mix of aromatic herbs and spices.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

  

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Main Ingredients

• 4 pounds pork shoulder bone-in, trimmed
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 tablespoon salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper on all sides.
• In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat and brown the pork shoulder on all sides.
• Add garlic and bay leaves to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the apple cider and bring to a simmer.
• Cover the pot and braise in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 3 hours or until the pork is tender.

Notes

For more flavor, marinate the pork overnight in the refrigerator with the cider.