This tender pork shoulder is cooked slowly in sweet apple cider, making every bite juicy and full of flavor. It’s perfect for cozy dinners with family and friends!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is enough to make anyone hungry. I love pairing it with some warm bread to soak up the tasty sauce. Yum!
Making this dish is a breeze! Just throw everything in the pot and let it do its magic. It’s simple, and the results are incredibly delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for braising, as it turns tender and juicy during long cooking. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a boneless chuck roast works well too. Just remember, the more marbled, the better for flavor!
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider gives the dish a wonderful sweetness and depth. If you can’t find apple cider, you can substitute with apple juice, but avoid sweetened versions if possible to keep the flavor balanced.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary create great flavor but dried versions are absolutely fine. Use about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb if that’s what you have on hand. For a twist, also try adding sage for a different flavor profile!
Onions and Garlic: These are essential for building the base flavor. Yellow onions are recommended, but white or even red onions will work. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute; just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Shoulder?
Searing is crucial to developing a deep flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to dry the pork thoroughly with paper towels; moisture prevents browning.
- Heat your pot until it’s hot—this helps achieve that golden color. If the oil shimmers when added, you’re on the right track!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if necessary; this way, each side gets properly browned. It’ll take about 4-5 minutes for each side.
Taking these steps makes a big difference in enhancing the dish’s overall taste!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt), bone-in or boneless
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably fresh or unfiltered)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 2 apples, cored and sliced (for extra apple flavor and garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 3 to 3.5 hours to cook in the oven. So, if you’re looking to impress, set aside about 4 hours total—perfect for a cozy evening meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is crucial for the braising to happen perfectly!
2. Prepare the Pork:
Pat the pork shoulder dry using paper towels. This helps in getting that nice sear. Then, season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper all over.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large, heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork shoulder. Sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully golden brown—about 4-5 minutes per side. Once seared, carefully remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Onions:
Using the same pot (don’t wash it, we want that flavor!), add the sliced onions. Cook and stir occasionally for about 7-8 minutes, until they are softened and turning a bit caramelized.
5. Add Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 more minute. It will smell amazing!
6. Pour in the Liquids:
Next, pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the brown sugar until it’s dissolved, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
7. Add Herbs and Return the Pork:
Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. If you’re using the apples, add them too! Then, carefully place the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, making sure it’s nestled into the tasty liquids and onions.
8. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it braise for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and can easily be pulled apart.
9. Rest and Reduce:
Once done, remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes on a cutting board. Meanwhile, place the pot with the braising liquid back on the stovetop over medium heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This thicks it up into a delicious sauce!
10. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to shred or slice the pork shoulder. Serve it with the reduced sauce generously spooned over the top. Enjoy this succulent dish with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or some crusty bread to soak up that amazing apple cider sauce!
FAQ: Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for braising due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also use a boneless chuck roast or even a well-marbled beef brisket. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of meat.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker! After searing the pork and cooking the onions, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours until the pork is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the braised pork shoulder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Braised Pork Shoulder?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. Crusty bread is also a great option for soaking up the delicious sauce!
