Irresistible Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe

The aroma of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder wafts through the air, wrapping you in warmth and comfort like your favorite blanket on a chilly day. Picture tender, juicy pork infused with the sweet tang of apple cider, creating a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is mouthwatering.

Every time I prepare this dish, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the room and plates were overflowing. It’s the perfect centerpiece for cozy autumn nights or festive holiday feasts, promising a flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The last time I made Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, my family couldn’t stop raving about how it melted in their mouths.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pork Shoulder: A well-marbled cut ensures juicy, tender meat; look for one with a good fat cap.

• Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider for a sweet and tart base that enhances the flavor.

• Onions: Sweet yellow onions add depth; sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential; it infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.

• Thyme: Fresh thyme gives an earthy note; dried works too if that’s what you have on hand.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth balances flavors without overpowering the sweetness of the cider.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste; don’t be shy—season generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Make sure your pork shoulder is trimmed of excess fat and cut into large chunks for even cooking.

Sear the Pork: In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear each piece of pork until golden brown on all sides—this creates depth in flavor. Set aside once browned.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, lower the heat and add onions. Cook until soft and translucent, then stir in minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it.

Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in apple cider and chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This enhances flavor while deglazing—yum!

Slow Cook to Perfection: Return seared pork to the pot along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer before covering and transferring to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.

Serve It Up!: Once done, shred or slice the pork shoulder as desired, serving it hot with a drizzle of cooking liquid over top. Enjoy every delicious bite!

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms not just your belly but also your heart!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the pork shoulder to lock in flavor, then sauté onions and garlic before adding apple cider. This sequence enhances taste while ensuring tenderness in every bite.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the apple cider for hard cider or add fresh herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist. These small changes can elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker to maintain moistness.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over the last piece of succulent pork.

FAQ

What is the best cut of pork for braising?

Pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling, which ensures tenderness when cooked slowly.

Can I use non-alcoholic apple cider?

Absolutely! Non-alcoholic apple cider works wonderfully and maintains that sweet-tangy flavor.

How long should I cook the pork shoulder?

Cook it low and slow for about 3-4 hours until fork-tender for best results.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, a dish that combines tender pork with the sweet tang of apple cider. Perfect for cozy gatherings or festive feasts, this recipe fills your home with warmth and invites everyone to enjoy seconds. With minimal prep and a slow-cooking technique, you’ll create a mouthwatering centerpiece that delights all taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chunks until golden brown on all sides; set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Return the seared pork to the pot along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
7. Serve hot, drizzled with cooking liquid.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (170g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 90mg