This Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a cozy dish perfect for any meal. The pork gets a sweet boost from apple cider, making it tender and full of flavor!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? I love serving this with mashed potatoes or fresh bread to soak up that tasty sauce. Yum! 🥔🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with pork loin, but it may not be quite as juicy.
Apple Cider: Opt for unsweetened apple cider for the best flavor. If it’s not available, apple juice can work fine, though it’ll be a bit sweeter. I usually go for local cider for a fresher taste!
Onion: A large yellow onion is best for its balanced sweetness. If you prefer, red onion or shallots can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add delicious notes. If you have dried herbs, they work too! Just remember to use less; about a teaspoon of each will suffice.
How Do You Get the Pork to be Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender pork lies in the slow cooking process. Braising is your friend! Follow these steps:
- Start by searing the pork to create a lovely crust; this locks in flavors.
- Cook it low and slow—at 325°F for 3 to 3.5 hours. Don’t rush this step!
- Check for tenderness: it should easily shred with a fork.
For extra flavor in the sauce, let the braising liquid simmer down after removing the pork. It’s a great way to intensify the flavors!
Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (unsweetened if possible)
- 1 cup low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: 2 apples, cored and sliced
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking time in the oven. Perfect for a cozy evening meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will help ensure your pork cooks evenly throughout.
2. Season the Pork:
Generously season the pork shoulder with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides to enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Pork:
Heat the oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it’s browned and caramelized, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook until it softens, approximately 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
5. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the brown sugar or maple syrup until everything is well mixed.
6. Return the Pork:
Return the seared pork shoulder to the pot, nestling it into the liquid. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. If you’re using apples, place the sliced apples around the pork.
7. Bring to a Simmer:
Turn the heat up slightly and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
8. Bake:
Once simmering, cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the pork for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until it is fork-tender and easily pulling apart.
9. Final Touches:
After removing the pot from the oven, carefully transfer the pork to a plate. Discard the bay leaf and herb sprigs. For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the braising liquid on the stovetop until reduced to your liking.
10. Serve:
Slice or shred the pork shoulder and drizzle the apple cider sauce and cooked apples over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your delicious, fall-inspired Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder!
FAQ for Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked slowly, you can also use pork loin. Just be aware that pork loin may be less fatty and require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that the broth you’re using is labeled as gluten-free, and avoid adding any ingredients that contain gluten. The apple cider and seasonings can still provide all the flavor you need.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork shoulder and braise it a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven. The flavors will be even better the next day!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded pork and sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
