This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is an easy one-pot dinner recipe that is so cozy and perfect for the fall months. Tender pork cooked low and slow in a bath of fresh apple cider, onions, apples, and fresh herbs makes it ideal for family gatherings or cozy weekends at home. The combination of sweet cider and savory pork creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without much fuss.
- Flavorful: The apple cider infuses the pork with a rich, sweet flavor that is hard to resist.
- Perfect for Fall: This dish captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and comforting ingredients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this a fantastic choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Kitchen twine
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for braising, it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the braising liquid smoothly without lumps.
- Kitchen twine: Useful for bundling herbs together, enhancing flavor without leaving bits behind.
Ingredients
For the Pork
- 4-5 lb pork shoulder roast or boston butt roast
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
- 2 cups fresh apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion
- 1 head of garlic, top sliced off opposite of the root end
- 3 rosemary sprigs
- 4 thyme sprigs
For Vegetables and Apples
- 1 red onion, cut into thick slices
- 2 firm and slightly tart apples, peeled and cut into wedges
For Seasoning
- kosher salt
- freshly cracked black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325 F to prepare for slow cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork
- Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder if necessary.
- Cut the pork into 4 large pieces or leave it whole if it’s bone-in.
Step 3: Season the Pork
Pat the pork pieces dry with a paper towel. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Sear the Pork
- Heat neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the pork in a single layer.
- Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until deeply browned. You may need to do this in batches depending on your pot size.
Step 5: Prepare Braising Liquid
While searing:
1. In a bowl, whisk together fresh apple cider, chicken stock or broth, dijon mustard, and dehydrated minced onion.
2. Use kitchen twine to tie rosemary and thyme into a small bundle.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients in Dutch Oven
Once seared:
1. Pour in the prepared braising liquid over the pork.
2. Add garlic head (sliced side up) along with herb bundle to the pot.
3. Cover with lid and place into preheated oven.
Step 7: Braise the Pork
Braise for about 3 hours (check after 2.5 hours if using boneless). Flip halfway through cooking until just shy of fork-tender.
Step 8: Add Apples and Onions
After checking tenderness:
1. Remove from oven; arrange red onions and apple wedges around pork.
2. Cover again; return to oven for another 30–45 minutes until very tender.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Once done:
1. Remove from oven; let rest in braising liquid for about 30 minutes.
2. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into liquid; season as needed with salt and pepper before serving.
Enjoy this flavorful Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder at your next gathering!
How to Serve Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Serving Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a delightful experience, especially during the fall months. The tender meat and flavorful braising liquid create an inviting dish that pairs well with various sides.
On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich base that absorbs the delicious braising juices, making every bite heavenly.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add a nice contrast in texture and flavor, balancing the savory pork.
In Tacos
- Shred the pork and serve it in warm tortillas topped with fresh cilantro and onions for a fun twist on a classic dish.
Over Rice
- Serve the pork over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the apple cider-infused broth, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the flavorful sauce, ensuring none of that delicious goodness goes to waste.
As a Sandwich
- Use the leftover pork to make sandwiches with your favorite toppings, creating an easy and satisfying lunch option.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
To make your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder incredible, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose quality pork – Select a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Sear well – Browning the meat creates depth in flavor; don’t skip this step!
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh rosemary and thyme enhance the dish’s aroma and taste compared to dried herbs.
- Let it rest – Allowing the meat to rest before slicing ensures juiciness.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste the braising liquid before serving; it might need a pinch more salt or pepper.
- Serve warm – This dish is best enjoyed warm, so keep it cozy until it’s time to eat.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Pairing sides with your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this cozy dish:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy with hints of garlic, these potatoes absorb delicious juices from the pork.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet caramelized carrots add brightness and balance to the savory flavors of the pork.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans provide a crunchy texture contrast while adding freshness.
- Apple Cabbage Slaw – This tangy slaw offers crispness and acidity that pairs perfectly with rich pork.
- Buttermilk Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up extra sauce; they add comfort to any plate.
- Quinoa Pilaf – A nutty quinoa pilaf can bring additional nutrition while providing a unique flavor combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not Trimming the Fat: Leaving large fat caps on the pork can result in a greasy dish. Trim excess fat for a leaner and more flavorful meal.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Searing too much pork at once can lower the pan’s temperature, preventing proper browning. Cook in batches to achieve a nice crust.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the pork right away can cause juices to run out. Always let it rest in the braising liquid for 30 minutes before serving.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning your meat can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper both before searing and after cooking.
- Rushing the Cooking Time: Braising requires patience. Don’t rush this step; cook until fork-tender for the best texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the pork fresh.
Freezing Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, heating on medium power until warm, stirring occasionally for even heating.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cider if needed to prevent sticking and ensure moistness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a delicious dish where pork is slowly cooked in apple cider, resulting in tender meat infused with sweet and savory flavors.
How long does it take to cook Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
The total cooking time is about 3 hours, plus resting time. It’s essential to braise low and slow for optimal tenderness.
Can I customize my Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices, or substitute other fruits like pears for added flavor variations.
What sides pair well with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
This dish goes well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad that complements its rich flavors.
Can I use other cuts of pork instead of shoulder?
Yes, you can use cuts like pork butt or even ribs, but cooking times may vary based on the cut chosen.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. The combination of apple cider and fresh herbs creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a fall favorite.
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is the perfect dish for cozy fall gatherings. This one-pot dinner features tender pork shoulder, slowly cooked in a fragrant blend of fresh apple cider, savory garlic, and aromatic herbs. The result is a comforting meal that boasts a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Pair it with your favorite sides—like creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread—to soak up the delicious juices. Ideal for meal prep, leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 4–5 lb pork shoulder roast
- 2 cups fresh apple cider
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 red onion
- 2 firm apples
- 3 rosemary sprigs
- 4 thyme sprigs
- kosher salt
- freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat; sear the pork on all sides until browned.
- In a bowl, whisk together apple cider, chicken stock, mustard, and dehydrated onion. Tie herbs together with kitchen twine.
- Pour braising liquid over the pork in the Dutch oven; add garlic and herb bundle.
- Cover and braise in the oven for about 3 hours; check tenderness after 2.5 hours.
- Add red onions and apple wedges; cover again and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes until very tender.
- Let rest for 30 minutes in the braising liquid before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Choose well-marbled pork for extra flavor. Don’t skip the resting time to maintain juiciness. Feel free to customize with different fruits or herbs.
