Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Trim large fat caps from the pork and cut it into 4 large pieces (or leave it whole if it’s bone-in). Pat dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork pieces in a single layer for 4-5 minutes on each side until deeply browned. You can do this in batches if needed.
- In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider, chicken stock, dijon mustard, and minced onion. Tie the rosemary and thyme with kitchen twine to keep them neat.
- Pour the braising liquid into the Dutch oven, adding the tied herbs and garlic. Cover and transfer everything into the oven.
- Braise for about 3 hours, checking at 2.5 hours for boneless pork. Flip the pork halfway through. When it’s nearly fork-tender, remove it from the oven and add the sliced red onions and apple wedges around the pork.
- Cover and return to the oven for an additional 30-45 minutes until the pork is very tender.
- Once done, let the pork rest in the braising liquid for 30 minutes. Squeeze the garlic cloves into the broth or onto the pork and season the liquid to taste. Serve the pork with the apples, onions, and delicious braising juices.
Best ways to enjoy it
There are so many delightful ways to serve Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder. A great option is to accompany it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, which perfectly soak up the flavorful broth. Consider a crisp green salad on the side to balance the richness, or whip up some homemade cornbread for an extra touch of comfort. And don’t forget to pour that luscious braising liquid over everything; it’s the crown jewel of this dish.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep leftovers fresh, store any unused portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture. If you want to freeze the braised pork, ensure it cools completely, then package it tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!
Helpful cooking tips
For even more flavorful results, let the pork shoulder marinate in the apple cider overnight before cooking. This not only infuses the meat with more flavor but also contributes to its tenderness. Additionally, using a heavy-duty Dutch oven helps distribute the heat evenly, ensuring the pork cooks beautifully throughout. If your apples start to break down too much during cooking, feel free to add them halfway through the braising process to retain their shape.
Recipe variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste. Experiment with different herbs, like tarragon or sage, or add a touch of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a sweeter finish, consider drizzling a bit of honey onto the apples as they roast. For a twist on the traditional braise, try adding a splash of bourbon to the braising liquid for a smoky complexity.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The prep time for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is about 20-30 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 3.5 to 4 hours. It’s a slow-braise technique that ensures tenderness and flavor.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
While pork shoulder works best for braising, you can use cuts like pork loin or even beef chuck if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may cook faster.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish is not spicy at all. The apple cider adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor that balances well with the herbs and meat. However, you can adjust the seasonings as per your taste preferences!
By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting and flavorful Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder that your friends and family will adore. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
