Description
This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe features tender, juicy pork slowly cooked in a flavorful blend of apple cider, onions, garlic, and herbs. The pork is first seared to develop a caramelized crust, then braised gently until fork-tender, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish perfect for comforting family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
Liquids
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably fresh, unfiltered)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (use gluten-free broth if needed)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Dry the pork shoulder thoroughly with paper towels. Generously season all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to create a flavorful crust during searing.
- Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until a golden brown crust forms, which locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Remove the pork temporarily from the pot. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the apple cider to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to incorporate their rich flavor into the sauce.
- Add Aromatics and Liquids: Return the pork shoulder to the pot. Add fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and enough broth to come halfway up the meat. Optionally, sprinkle brown sugar on top to enhance caramelization and sweetness.
- Braise the Pork: Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer gently on low heat for 3-4 hours, or alternatively, transfer the covered pot to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) and cook until the pork is fork-tender and falling apart.
- Finish the Sauce: Remove the pork from the pot and keep warm. Skim off any excess fat from the braising liquid, then reduce the sauce over medium heat until it thickens slightly and becomes rich and flavorful.
- Serve: Slice or shred the tender pork shoulder. Spoon the luscious apple cider sauce over the meat and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free broth and ensure brown sugar and other seasonings are gluten-free.
- For extra caramelized flavor, do not skip the optional brown sugar.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best depth of flavor, but pasteurized cider works as well.
