Apple cider braised pork shoulder is like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining savory and sweet flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine tender, succulent pork shoulder, melting in your mouth, infused with aromatic spices and the delightful tang of apple cider. You can almost smell the sweet, earthy aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away, filling your home with delicious anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What is Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
- How long does it take to cook Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
- Can I use other types of cider for this recipe?
- What side dishes pair well with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
- Conclusion for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder :
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made apple cider braised pork shoulder. It was a crisp autumn evening, and the leaves were doing their best impersonation of confetti in the wind. I invited friends over for dinner, hoping to impress them with my culinary skills. Little did I know that this dish would become my go-to recipe for any gathering—perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions when you want to showcase your cooking prowess without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You’ll enjoy the ease of preparation with simple steps and minimal cleanup required.
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of savory pork and sweet apple cider that everyone will rave about.
- Visually stunning with its rich color and garnishes, it makes an eye-catching centerpiece on any dinner table.
- This dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Shoulder: A boneless cut works best for even cooking; aim for about 3-4 pounds to serve a crowd.
- Apple Cider: Choose a quality, unfiltered apple cider for depth of flavor; avoid anything too sugary.
- Onions: Yellow onions add sweetness as they caramelize; two medium-sized onions should do.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the aroma and flavor; use about four cloves, minced.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy note; around five sprigs will elevate your dish beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously; these staples will enhance all other flavors in the dish.
For the sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to balance out flavors without making it too salty.
- Brown Sugar: A couple of tablespoons will help caramelize the meat and complement the apple cider perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pork
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it’s warming up, season your pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat, add some oil. Once hot, sear the seasoned pork shoulder until golden brown on all sides, about eight minutes total.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, toss in sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze with Cider
Pour in about one cup of apple cider while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this is where all that flavor hides! Let it simmer for two minutes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return your seared pork shoulder back into the pot along with thyme sprigs and more apple cider (around three cups). Add in chicken broth until everything is covered.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover with a lid and transfer your Dutch oven into the preheated oven. Let it braise low and slow for approximately three hours or until fork-tender.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Your friends will think you spent all day in the kitchen—little will they know you’ve been enjoying wine while waiting!
This apple cider braised pork shoulder is sure to become a cherished favorite at gatherings big or small!
You Must Know
- This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe is a game changer for cozy dinners.
- The sweet and tangy cider pairs perfectly with the rich pork, creating a dish that’s simply irresistible.
- It’s easy to make and will impress your guests every time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the pork shoulder first to lock in those glorious juices, then braise it slowly in apple cider while you prepare your sides. This sequence ensures a tender, flavorful dish that practically melts in your mouth.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the apple cider for hard cider if you’re feeling adventurous! You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist or even some diced apples for extra sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cider to keep it juicy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let the pork rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy when you slice it.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 195°F is perfect for pulling apart.
- Don’t rush the braising process; low and slow means more flavor!
Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends come over, and their faces light up with delight as they take that first bite—it’s pure magic every time!
FAQs :
What is Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a savory dish that features pork shoulder slowly cooked in apple cider, enhancing the meat’s flavor with a sweet and tangy profile. The slow cooking process allows the pork to become tender and juicy, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This dish often includes aromatics like onions and garlic, which further deepen the flavor. You can serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How long does it take to cook Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Cooking Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder typically requires about 3 to 4 hours. This includes time for browning the meat and then braising it in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s fork-tender. Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the pork remains moist and flavorful throughout the process. Plan ahead so you can enjoy this comforting meal without feeling rushed.
Can I use other types of cider for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cider when making Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder. While traditional apple cider works wonderfully, you might try hard cider for an interesting twist. Other fruit-based ciders, like pear or cherry, can also add unique flavors to your dish. Just be mindful of the sweetness level; adjust seasonings accordingly to balance out any additional sweetness from different ciders.
What side dishes pair well with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, bring a fresh contrast and color to your plate. homemade pizza sauce creamy mac salad side A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing balance to this hearty dish.
Conclusion for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder :
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a delightful dish that combines savory and sweet elements for a comforting meal. The slow cooking method ensures that the pork remains tender while absorbing rich flavors from apple cider and aromatics. slow cooker chicken recipe Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe offers versatility in serving options alongside various side dishes. Don’t miss out on trying this delicious recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a comfort food classic that combines tender, slow-cooked pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. This dish is infused with aromatic spices, resulting in a mouthwatering experience that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can create a show-stopping centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds boneless pork shoulder
- 1 cup quality unfiltered apple cider
- 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown (about 8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté sliced onions and minced garlic in the same pot until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Deglaze the pot with 1 cup apple cider, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return the pork to the pot, add thyme, remaining apple cider (around 3 cups), and enough chicken broth to cover.
- Cover and braise in the oven for approximately 3 hours or until fork-tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
