This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is all about comforting flavors! The pork cooks low and slow in sweet apple cider and spices, making it super tender and juicy.
Honestly, the smell while it cooks will make your mouth water! I love serving it with mashed potatoes—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. 🍏🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking. You can also use pork butt if that’s easier to find. Both cuts have enough fat to keep the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using turkey thighs, but know they’ll cook differently!
Apple Cider: Unsweetened apple cider is best for the right balance of flavor. If you can’t find it, you can use apple juice but reduce the sugar in the recipe. Some people love adding a splash of hard cider for an adult twist!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add fragrant notes. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work fine. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Onions and Garlic: Yellow onions are great here due to their sweetness when cooked. You can swap with white or red onions if you have them. For garlic lovers, feel free to add more cloves!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork?
The secret to tender pork shoulder lies in slow cooking and simmering it in liquid. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a good sear. This enhances flavor through browning.
- Cook the pork low and slow! That’s why the oven temperature is set to 325°F. Braise it for 3 to 3.5 hours until it’s fork-tender.
- Let it rest after cooking. This keeps it flavorful and juicy.
- If you can prepare the dish a day in advance, it’s even better! The flavors meld overnight.
With these tips, your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder will be a hit! Enjoy the deliciousness with family and friends!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Braising Liquid:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Seasoning:
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 1 apple, sliced (for extra apple flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tender pork shoulder recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus a long and cozy cooking time of 3 to 3.5 hours in the oven. The result is mouth-watering, tender pork that you can shred and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure that your pork braises perfectly!
2. Prepare the Pork:
Take the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. This step helps to get a nice crispy exterior. Season it all over with salt and freshly ground black pepper to add flavor.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large, heavy oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it until it’s browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. After searing, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside for a moment.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced onion to the same pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it’s softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. This will create a delicious base for your braise!
5. Create the Braising Liquid:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits lingering on the bottom of the pot. Those bits are packed with flavor!
6. Add Herbs and Return the Pork:
Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and optional apple slices to the pot. Place the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, fitting it snugly into the liquid.
7. Cover and Braise:
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it braise for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
8. Rest and Reduce:
Once the pork is done, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board or platter. Tent it with foil to keep warm. Now, place the pot back on the stove over medium-high heat and let the braising liquid reduce slightly, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Shred and Serve:
Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces and, if you’d like, mix it with some of the rich braising liquid for added juiciness and flavor. Serve the delicious, tender apple cider braised pork with sauce drizzled over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread!
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Shoulder for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork shoulder before cooking for even cooking and tender results. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or in cold water if you’re short on time. Avoid cooking from frozen, as it can lead to uneven textures.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you can’t find unsweetened apple cider, you can use apple juice as an alternative. Just reduce the brown sugar in the recipe slightly, as apple juice is generally sweeter. For a more adult flavor, consider using hard cider!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded pork for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it gently when you’re ready to eat it again!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the recipe a day in advance and refrigerate the pork in its braising liquid. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen up the sauce.
