Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that fills the home with warm, inviting aromas on a chilly evening, and this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder fits the bill perfectly. Tender chunks of pork shoulder are slowly cooked until they practically melt in your mouth, infused with the sweet and tangy essence of apple cider. Toss in some seasonal vegetables and fragrant spices, and you’ve got a delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that brings the flavors of fall to your table!
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 large carrots, cut into chunks
- 3 medium apples, cored and sliced
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper on all sides, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the pork chunks in batches, browning each side for about 4-5 minutes. Remove the seared pork and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté until softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and intoxicating.
- Pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and lift all those delicious browned bits!
- Add in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, cinnamon, and bay leaves, stirring well.
- Return the seared pork to the pot, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and transfer the pot to the preheated oven.
- Braise the pork in the oven for 3 hours, then add the carrots and sliced apples.
- Return to the oven and continue to cook for an additional 1 hour, or until the pork is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and allow the pork to rest for 10 minutes before shredding or serving in generous chunks.
- Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving this delicious masterpiece!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the pork shoulder in apple cider overnight before cooking. This not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat further. You can also add other root vegetables, like parsnips or sweet potatoes, for a delightful twist!
Cooking Techniques
Braising is a technique that involves cooking food slowly in liquid, which is ideal for tougher cuts of meat like pork shoulder. This method allows the meat to become tender and juicy as it absorbs the rich flavors from the liquid and spices throughout the cooking process. Keep an eye on the liquid level in your pot, adding more broth or cider as needed to ensure the meat stays moist.
FAQ
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Simply follow the same searing and layering process and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for similarly tender results.
What do I serve with apple cider braised pork shoulder? This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and heart. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a family weeknight dinner, the blend of sweet apple cider and savory pork is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. So gather around the table and savor each bite of this comforting dish!