Cozy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe Delight

Indulging in the soothing aroma of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly fall evening. Picture this: tender, juicy pork shoulder, slowly simmered in a rich apple cider marinade that dances with sweet and savory notes. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds throw a party and your kitchen smell like autumn bliss.

This recipe isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this glorious dish—my friends were convinced I had secretly enrolled in culinary school! Spoiler alert: I hadn’t. But, armed with this recipe, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this flavor-packed experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

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

• Pork Shoulder: Look for a bone-in shoulder for extra flavor and tenderness during cooking.
• Apple Cider: Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Onions: Yellow onions work beautifully here; they caramelize nicely and add sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they infuse aromatic flavors throughout the dish.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy note—dried thyme works too if that’s all you have on hand.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps control saltiness while enriching the sauce.

For the Seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential; season generously to enhance all those delicious flavors.

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: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). A low temperature ensures your pork will become perfectly tender as it braises.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork

Season your pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This is where we kickstart our flavor journey!

Step 3: Sear It Good

In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Sear the pork shoulder until golden brown on all sides—this will create a flavorful crust.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Once browned, remove the pork from the pot temporarily. In that same pot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about three minutes will do the trick.

Step 5: Mix It Up

Return the pork shoulder to the pot along with apple cider, chicken broth, and thyme. Make sure everything is well combined; we want every bite bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Let It Braise

Cover the pot with a lid and place it in your preheated oven. Allow it to braise for about three hours or until fork-tender—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with some of that amazing sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this heavenly Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the pork shoulder until golden brown to lock in those mouthwatering juices. While it’s sizzling, chop your vegetables and prepare the apple cider mixture. Once the pork is nicely browned, toss in your veggies, pour over the cider, and let it simmer into a tender masterpiece.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients! Add some sliced apples for extra sweetness or sprinkle in your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of vinegar for a unique flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to keep that delectable moisture intact. You may want to add a splash of apple cider to revive its juicy goodness.

I remember the first time I made Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! They even asked if I had secretly hired a chef!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?

To make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, you will need a few essential ingredients. Start with a boneless pork shoulder, which is ideal for braising. You will also need apple cider, onion, garlic, and a selection of herbs like thyme and rosemary. Additionally, consider adding some chicken or vegetable broth for depth of flavor. Salt and pepper to taste are also necessary. This combination creates a deliciously tender and flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with fall vegetables.

How long does it take to cook Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?

The cooking time for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder varies depending on the size of your pork shoulder. Generally, plan for about 3 to 4 hours in the oven at 325°F (163°C). This slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender as it absorbs all the flavors from the apple cider and herbs. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for perfectly braised meat.

Can I use a slow cooker for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?

Yes, you can absolutely use a slow cooker for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder! Simply sear the pork shoulder in a skillet first to enhance its flavor, then transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the apple cider, onions, garlic, and herbs. Set your slow cooker on low for about 8 hours or high for about 4 hours. This method allows you to enjoy a hands-off cooking experience while still achieving that deliciously tender result.

What sides pair well with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder pairs beautifully with various sides. For a comforting option, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. You can also opt for sautéed greens such as kale or spinach for a fresh contrast. Another great choice is homemade applesauce or coleslaw, which adds brightness and balance to the rich flavors of the pork.

Conclusion for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder:

In conclusion, Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with the sweetness of apple cider. The key to its success lies in slow cooking, allowing the meat to absorb all those rich flavors while becoming tender and juicy. Pair this dish with comforting sides for an unforgettable meal perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and impress your family or guests with a warm and satisfying feast!

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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Apple Cider Braised Shoulder is a cozy fall dish featuring tender meat simmered in sweet apple cider and aromatic spices, perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 lbs bone-in pork shoulder
• 2 cups fresh unfiltered apple cider
• 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. Sear It Good: In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Add Aromatics: Remove the pork from the pot. In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about three minutes.
5. Mix It Up: Return the pork to the pot and pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and add thyme. Stir well to combine.
6. Let It Braise: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in your preheated oven. Allow it to braise for about three hours or until fork-tender.
7. Serve: Transfer the pork to plates and drizzle with sauce before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 6 oz of cooked pork with sauce
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For added sweetness, consider adding sliced apples or swapping herbs based on your preference. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.