This tender apple cider braised pork shoulder is a warm hug on a plate! The juicy pork melts in your mouth, thanks to the sweet apple cider that adds a delightful flavor.
When I make this dish, my home smells amazing! Serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce—you won’t regret it! 🍏🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for braising due to its high fat content, which keeps it tender. If unavailable, you can substitute with pork butt or even a well-marbled beef chuck roast.
Apple Cider: Unsweetened apple cider enhances the flavor. If you can’t find it, apple juice works in a pinch but may be sweeter, so adjust sugar accordingly.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onions, consider shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
Apples: Granny Smith offers tartness that balances the dish. Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Feel free to use any apple you enjoy! Pears can be a great substitute too.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Shoulder?
Searing the pork shoulder is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pork is completely dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a golden crust.
- Heat the oil until it shimmers; you want it hot! This ensures a good sear.
- Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; let the meat develop a nice crust.
- If the pork sticks to the pot, it’s not ready to flip. Wait until it releases easily for perfect browning.
With this technique, your pork will be packed with flavor that shines through in the final dish!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless), trimmed of excess fat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Flavorings:
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Fruits and Herbs:
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup (if a sweeter sauce is desired)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 3 to 4 hours total cooking time. The slow braising ensures the pork becomes fork-tender, so prepare to wait a bit, but it’s worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure it’s ready for the pork after searing.
2. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in getting a nice sear. Season it generously with salt and pepper all over for great flavor.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large, heavy oven-proof pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until deeply browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Onions:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and lightly caramelized, about 8 minutes. They’ll add delicious flavor to your dish!
5. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This will give your dish a lovely aromatic base.
6. Incorporate the Liquids:
Pour in the apple cider and broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (these bits are full of flavor!). Stir in the apple cider vinegar as well.
7. Add Apples and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the sliced apples, thyme, cinnamon, bay leaves, and brown sugar or maple syrup (if you like a sweeter sauce). This combination will create a wonderful aroma!
8. Return the Pork to the Pot:
Carefully return the pork shoulder to the pot, nestling it into the liquid and apples. Make sure it is mostly submerged.
9. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise the pork for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and pulls apart easily.
10. Finishing Touches:
Once done, carefully remove the pork from the pot and tent it with foil to keep it warm. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce and discard the bay leaves.
11. Serve:
You can optionally reduce the sauce on the stovetop over medium heat for about 10 minutes to concentrate the flavors further. Slice or shred the pork shoulder and serve with the cooked apples and sauce generously spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful apple cider braised pork shoulder with loved ones! 🌟
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal for braising due to its fat content, you can also use pork butt or a well-marbled beef chuck roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider?
No problem! You can substitute apple cider with apple juice, although it may be sweeter. To balance the sweetness, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the pork and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer them with all other ingredients into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until tender. It’s a great option for hands-off cooking!
