Description
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a tender, slow-cooked dish featuring juicy pork shoulder simmered in apple cider with onions, garlic, and warm herbs for a rich and comforting flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 kg pork shoulder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F).
- Pat pork shoulder dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear pork on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions until softened, then add garlic.
- Pour in apple cider, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
- Add thyme and bay leaf.
- Return pork to the pot, ensuring it is partially submerged in liquid.
- Cover and braise in oven for 3–4 hours until fork-tender.
- Remove pork and let rest 10 minutes before shredding or slicing.
- Simmer sauce on stovetop to reduce slightly if desired and spoon over pork before serving.
Notes
- Skim excess fat from sauce before serving.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American