Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is one of those meals that brings comfort and joy, especially as the leaves start to turn in fall. Imagine coming home to the warm aroma of herbs and sweet apple cider wafting through your kitchen—doesn’t that sound inviting? You’re in for a treat with this recipe! It features a rich combination of sweet and savory, meltingly tender pork, and a colorful medley of apples and onions that just bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend more time with family and friends at the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply craving a heartwarming meal, this dish is sure to impress everyone who tastes it. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why This Recipe Works

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a symphony of flavors that combines the sweetness of apple cider with the savoriness of slow-cooked pork. The technique of braising ensures that the pork is meltingly tender, while the addition of fresh herbs elevates the dish with aromatic qualities that will delight your senses. It’s the perfect recipe to welcome the cozy fall months.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

This dish offers a heartwarming experience, perfect for gathering friends and family around the table. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of slowly simmering pork, apples, and herbs. Each bite is a balance of sweet and savory that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4-5 lb pork shoulder roast or Boston butt roast
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil
• 2 cups fresh apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
• 2 cups chicken stock or broth
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion
• 1 head of garlic, top sliced off opposite of the root end
• 3 rosemary sprigs
• 4 thyme sprigs
• 1 red onion, cut into thick slices
• 2 firm and slightly tart apples, peeled and cut into wedges
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Preparing Your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Preheating and Preparing the Pork

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. Trim the pork shoulder of any excess fat, especially if there are large fat caps. Depending on the size and type of roast, cut the pork into 4 large pieces or leave it whole if bone-in. Use a paper towel to pat the pork dry, and season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Searing the Pork

In a large Dutch oven, heat the neutral oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork pieces in a single layer. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until the pork is deeply browned. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your pot.

Preparing the Braising Liquid

While the pork is searing, combine the apple cider, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, and dehydrated minced onion in a bowl and whisk together. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Adding Herbs and Braising the Pork

Use kitchen twine to bundle the rosemary and thyme together. Once the pork is browned on all sides, pour in the prepared braising liquid. Add the garlic head and herb bundle into the pot, cover it, and move it to the oven. Braise for about 3 hours, checking for tenderness starting at the 2.5-hour mark, and flipping the pork halfway through.

Adding Onions and Apples

When the pork is just shy of fork-tender, remove it from the oven. Surround the pork with thick slices of red onion and wedges of tart apples. Cover and return it to the oven for another 30-45 minutes until the pork is very tender.

Resting and Serving

Once the cooking time is complete, take the pork out and let it rest in the braising liquid for 30 minutes. Squeeze the soft garlic cloves into the liquid or directly onto the pork. Season the braising liquid to taste with salt and pepper. Serve the succulent pork alongside apples and onions, drizzled with the intensified braising juices.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes, hearty bread, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors.

Tips for Success

• For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the pork overnight with spices.
• Ensure even cooking by occasionally rotating the pork during braising.
• Always taste and adjust the seasoning of your broth before serving.

Variations

• Substitute the apples with pears for a different sweetness.
• Add root vegetables like carrots and parsnips for additional flavor and nutrition.

Storage Tips

Leftovers of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use another cut of pork?
Yes, other cuts like pork loin can be used, but they may not be as tender as shoulder.

2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the pork first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork should be fork-tender and pull apart easily when done.

4. What can I substitute for apple cider?
If apple cider isn’t available, you can use a mix of apple juice and a splash of vinegar to replicate the acidity.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing it in the freezer.

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps up the essence of fall in every tender bite. With layers of flavor from the sweet apple cider, the aromatic herbs, and the juicy pork, it’s undoubtedly a recipe that you’ll want to add to your arsenal. Perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or Sunday feasts, this dish will delight and impress all at your table. Enjoy the comforting flavors of the season and relish each moment shared over this delightful meal!

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