Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder: A Comforting Delight

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich flavors of tender pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This recipe transforms a humble cut of meat into a succulent centerpiece that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork shoulder absorbs the aromatic spices and the natural sweetness of the cider, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The ease of preparation and the depth of flavor make this a go-to recipe for any home cook looking to impress.

Ingredients List

To prepare Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves

Ingredient Substitutions

• Pork Shoulder: You can substitute with pork butt or a boneless pork roast.
• Apple Cider: Use apple juice or a mix of apple juice and vinegar for similar sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to ensure a slow and even cooking process.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Liquid

Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the pork shoulder to the pot and add the bay leaves. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the pork.

Step 5: Braise the Pork

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with the braising liquid drizzled over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Carbohydrates	10g
Sugars	5g
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Fiber	1g

*DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a healthier twist on Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, consider these modifications:

• Lean Cuts: Opt for a leaner cut of pork, such as loin, to reduce fat content.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with these creative serving ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder turns out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Skipping the Searing: Don’t skip the searing step, as it adds depth and flavor to the dish.
• Overcooking: While slow cooking is key, be careful not to overcook the pork, as it can dry out.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your braised pork, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a delectable dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its tender, flavorful meat and aromatic sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, this recipe showcases the beauty of slow cooking and the delightful flavors of fall, making it a must-try for any home cook.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pork shoulder in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

What can I use instead of apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, apple juice or a mixture of apple juice and vinegar can work well.

How do I know when the pork is done?

The pork should be fork-tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s fully cooked.

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Print

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 3 hours

Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to ensure a slow and even cooking process.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Liquid

Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the pork shoulder to the pot and add the bay leaves. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the pork.

Step 5: Braise the Pork

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with the braising liquid drizzled over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.