This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly nights! The pork becomes super tender from cooking slowly in delicious apple cider and spices.
As it cooks, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you might even be tempted to sneak a taste before serving! Trust me, the flavor is absolutely worth the wait!
I love to serve this dish with some warm bread to soak up the tasty sauce. It’s so easy to make, and you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table! 🍏🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for slow-cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find shoulder, you can use a pork butt or even a bone-in leg for a different texture.
Apple Cider: Unfiltered cider adds great depth, but any cider will work. For a non-alcoholic option, use apple juice mixed with a splash of vinegar.
Apples: Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp brings sweetness. Feel free to use any apple you like or mix in a few varieties for complexity.
Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme and rosemary are great, but fresh herbs can brighten the dish. Substitute with sage or tarragon if you prefer something different!
How Can You Ensure the Pork is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to perfectly braised pork is low and slow cooking. Start by searing the meat well to lock in flavors. Don’t rush the braising process; cook it in the oven covered to keep moisture in.
- Once seared, add onions and garlic for aromatic flavor.
- Use a mix of apple cider and chicken broth to achieve a nice balance of sweetness and savory.
- Braising for 3-4 hours ensures the pork becomes fork-tender. You can check doneness with a fork; if it easily pulls apart, it’s ready!
Following these steps will maximize the flavor and tenderness of your braised pork shoulder. Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Braising Liquid:
- 2 cups apple cider (unfiltered if possible)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Apples and Spices:
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours of braising time in the oven. The slow cooking allows for deep flavors to develop and ensures the pork shoulder becomes wonderfully tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This low and slow cooking method is crucial for achieving tender pork.
2. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
Pat the pork shoulder dry using paper towels. Generously season all sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until golden brown, roughly 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it starts to soften. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
5. Add the Spices and Sugar:
To the pot, stir in the brown sugar, dried thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook this mixture briefly to really bring out the aromas.
6. Create the Braising Liquid:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as they add extra flavor!
7. Return the Pork to the Pot:
Nestle the pork shoulder back into the pot, then arrange the sliced apples around it.
8. Braising Time:
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow it to braise for about 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and can be easily pulled apart.
9. Rest the Pork:
Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully lift the pork shoulder out and place it on a cutting board to rest.
10. Make the Sauce:
If desired, skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid and reduce it slightly over medium heat on the stovetop until it thickens into a sauce.
11. Serve:
Shred or slice the pork and serve it drizzled with the apple cider sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder! It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork butt or even bone-in leg. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and type of meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the braising step, then refrigerate for up to 2 days before cooking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What Can I Serve with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted or steamed vegetables also complements the meal beautifully!
