This tender pork shoulder is gently cooked in apple cider, creating a lovely, sweet flavor. The meat falls apart easily and is oh-so juicy!
Cooking it low and slow is the secret. I love to serve it with mashed potatoes; the gravy is simply perfect for dipping! Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for braising because it’s rich and fatty, which keeps it moist. If you can’t find pork shoulder, you could use a pork butt or even beef chuck as an alternative.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider brings the best flavor. Avoid using vinegar! If you don’t have cider, apple juice works in a pinch, but you might want to reduce the sugar slightly.
Onion: Yellow onions are great for their sweetness. If you are looking for a milder taste, shallots can be a nice substitute.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh thyme and rosemary, but if they aren’t available, dried herbs can work just fine. Just use about one-third of the quantity.
Chicken Broth: If you prefer, vegetable broth can be a good substitute to keep the dish lighter and still flavorful.
How Do You Achieve the Best Searing for Meat?
Searing the pork shoulder correctly is essential for building flavor in this dish. It locks in juices and adds depth to the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a heavy, oven-safe pot, like a Dutch oven, for even heat.
- Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the meat. A splash of water should sizzle.
- Don’t crowd the meat; if it doesn’t fit comfortably, sear in batches.
- Let the meat brown without moving it too much—this creates a nice crust.
With these tips, you’re set to make a delightful meal! Enjoy the tasty rewards of your effort!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 to 5 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Aromatics:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Braising Liquid:
- 2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
For the Herbs and Flavoring:
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 apple, cored and sliced (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours for slow braising in the oven. So, plan for around 4 hours in total to get that perfectly tender pork!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Then, season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides—this helps to enhance the flavors!
2. Sear the Pork:
In a large, heavy oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork shoulder. Sear it on all sides until it’s well browned, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. When done, remove the pork shoulder from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, turn the heat down to medium, and add the sliced onion to the same pot. Sauté until the onion is softened and lightly browned, around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant—this makes your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Create the Braising Liquid:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Gently stir to combine and be sure to scrape any brown bits stuck at the bottom of the pot, as they add great flavor.
5. Add Herbs and Apples:
In this step, add the thyme, rosemary (if using), bay leaf, and optional apple slices to the pot, giving it a lovely flavor infusion.
6. Braise the Pork:
Return the pork shoulder to the pot, nestling it into the delicious liquid. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Now, let it braise away for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is super tender and easy to shred with a fork.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork is done, carefully take the pot out of the oven. Transfer the pork to a cutting board or platter and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can strain the cooking liquid while the meat rests, or reduce it on the stovetop to thicken it a bit!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Shred or slice the pork shoulder, and serve it with the flavorful braising juices spooned generously over the top. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color! This tender and juicy pork goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread!
This recipe yields juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pork infused with the sweet tang of apple cider—a perfect comforting meal!
FAQ for Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content and flavor, you can also use pork butt or even beef chuck if you prefer. The cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider?
If apple cider isn’t available, you can substitute it with apple juice, although it may result in a slightly sweeter flavor. Just remember to adjust the brown sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the pork on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little cooking liquid to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop, and the flavors will be even more pronounced the next day!
