This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a cozy dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. The tender pork simmers in sweet apple cider and spices for a delightful meal!
When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing better than this dish. Serve it with some mashed potatoes, and you’re in for a treat. I can already taste the goodness! 🍏🐖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for braising due to its marbled fat, making it tender and flavorful. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a pork butt is a great substitute, as it has similar qualities.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider adds a sweet, tangy flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with unsweetened apple juice. However, the cider gives it a richer depth.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are used here, but you can swap for Italian seasoning if you want an easier option. Fresh herbs work great too; just double the amount.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are excellent for their tartness. Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Feel free to use whatever is in season, like Fuji or Braeburn apples.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork?
Braising is the key step for ensuring your pork shoulder becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the pork well to develop flavor. Don’t rush this step—it adds a lot!
- Use a mix of apple cider and chicken broth for a depth of flavor. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to get any bits stuck from browning.
- Cook low and slow! Maintaining a low oven temperature allows the meat to break down properly without drying out.
- Check the liquid level occasionally; if it’s low, add more cider or broth to prevent burning.
By following these techniques, your pork will come out juicy and full of flavor! Happy cooking!
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably fresh and unsweetened)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 apple, sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 3 to 3.5 hours to braise in the oven. You’ll enjoy the delightful aromas as it cooks, making your kitchen feel like home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While that heats up, pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This helps to boost the flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Pork
Next, heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and brown it on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. You want it to be deeply golden for the best flavor. Once it’s browned, carefully remove the pork and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds a lovely base flavor to your dish.
4. Add the Liquids
Now, pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where much of the flavor comes from!
5. Season and Return the Pork
Stir in the brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves. Give it a good mix! Return the pork shoulder to the pot and make sure it’s nestled well in the mixture. Add the sliced apple around the pork, and it’ll add sweetness as it cooks.
6. Braise in the Oven
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it braise for about 3 to 3.5 hours. Check it once or twice; if the liquid looks low, add a bit more broth or cider to keep everything nice and moist.
7. Rest the Pork
Once done, carefully remove the pork from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Tent it with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Resting will help the juices redistribute into the meat.
8. Reduce the Sauce
While the pork rests, take the pot with the braising liquid and place it on the stovetop over medium heat. Let it simmer for around 10 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce slightly. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to serve! Slice or shred the pork shoulder, drizzling it generously with the apple cider sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
FAQ for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for braising due to its fat content, you can substitute with pork butt or even a picnic roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you can’t find apple cider, unsweetened apple juice works as a great alternative. You can also mix apple juice with a bit of vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor of cider.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the pot during the braising process. Just cut them into larger chunks so they cook evenly alongside the pork.
