This Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a cozy dish that combines tender pork with sweet apple cider and warm spices. It’s perfect for those chilly nights!
I love how simple it is to make—just let the oven do the work! The smell of apple cider fills the house, and that’s when I know it’s a good day to dig in. 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut of meat is perfect for braising since it gets super tender. I recommend using bone-in for more flavor, but boneless works just as well. If you can’t find pork shoulder, try pork butt or belly as alternatives.
Apple Cider: Choose a good quality apple cider for the best flavor. If needed, you can substitute with apple juice, though it may be sweeter. I like using unfiltered cider for richer taste.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add great depth to the dish. If you don’t have dried herbs, fresh ones work beautifully! Use about three times the amount if using fresh herbs. For a twist, you could use sage or even oregano.
Onions and Garlic: These are essential for building flavor. Vidalia or yellow onions are best but any onion variety will do. If you want a milder flavor, use shallots instead of onions.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness that balances the savory notes. For a healthier option, you can use maple syrup or honey in smaller amounts.
What’s the Best Way to Sear the Pork Shoulder?
Searing the pork is key to creating a tasty crust! Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure the pork is dry before seasoning—this helps it get a nice brown color.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot but not smoking. It should shimmer when ready.
- Place the pork gently in the pan and don’t crowd it! This lets it sear properly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes before flipping to create that golden crust.
I always remove the pork from the pot once seared to keep it from overcooking while I sauté the onions. This step builds up such rich flavors!
How Do I Achieve Extra Tender Pork?
The key is low and slow cooking! Braising in the oven allows the meat to become tender. Here are some tips:
- Cook at a low temperature (325°F works great).
- Cover your pot tightly with a lid to keep moisture in. This creates steam that breaks down the meat fibers.
- Braise until it easily pulls apart with a fork, which usually takes around 3 to 3.5 hours.
Patience here really pays off, and it’s completely worth it when you taste that melt-in-your-mouth pork!
Easy 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
For the Aromatics and Liquid:
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (not vinegar)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 3 teaspoons fresh thyme)
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or 3 teaspoons fresh rosemary)
- 2 bay leaves
Optional Additions:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (for extra apple flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and then around 3 to 3.5 hours for braising in the oven. It sounds like a long time, but most of that is hands-off cooking time while the flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure that your pork braises evenly and becomes tender.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Pat your pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear later. Season it generously with salt and black pepper all over.
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork shoulder and sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and caramelized. This step adds a lot of flavor! Once done, take the pork out and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
5. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon—those bits bring extra flavor!
6. Season the Liquid:
Next, stir in the brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients.
7. Return the Pork to the Pot:
Now, nestle the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, making sure it sits in the liquid. If you’re using sliced apples, scatter them around the pork for added flavor.
8. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise the pork for about 3 to 3.5 hours, checking it occasionally. It’s ready when it’s really tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
9. Make the Sauce:
Once the pork is done, carefully remove it and the apples from the pot and set them aside, covering with foil to keep warm. Skim off any excess fat from the braising liquid, then simmer it on the stove over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until it reduces slightly into a sauce.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice or shred the pork shoulder and serve it topped with the delicious apple cider sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or some crusty bread to soak up all that mouthwatering sauce!
Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends, and savor the comforting flavors of apple and pork! 🍏
FAQ: Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is great for braising due to its fat content that keeps it moist, you can use pork butt, pork loin, or even country-style ribs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary with leaner cuts.
Is It Possible to Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead! Braise the pork shoulder as directed, then let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating. The flavors will meld even more, making it even tastier!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also use the leftover pork in sandwiches or salads!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! After searing the pork and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the pork is tender.
