APPLE CIDER BRAISED PORK SHOULDER

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a comforting, fall-inspired dish that’s tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Slow-cooked in a blend of apple cider, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings, the pork shoulder becomes melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

INGREDIENTS:

1 (4-5 lb/1.8-2.2 kg) pork shoulder roast (bone-in or boneless)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, thinly sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups (480ml) apple cider (not vinegar)

1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable broth

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)

2 bay leaves

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening the sauce)

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the Pork Shoulder:

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Sear the Pork:

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Deglaze the Pot:

Pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Stir in the broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Braise the Pork:

Return the pork shoulder to the pot, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Alternatively, you can braise it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for the same amount of time.

Finish the Sauce:

Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside to rest. Discard the bay leaves. If desired, thicken the sauce by stirring in the cornstarch slurry and simmering for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve:

Shred the pork or serve it in slices, topped with the rich apple cider sauce. Pair with your favorite sides for a delicious and hearty meal.