This tender apple cider braised pork shoulder is a cozy dish that’s perfect for gatherings. The pork gets infused with sweet cider, making each bite juicy and flavorful!
I love how simple it is to make—just throw everything in the pot and let it do its thing. The hardest part? Waiting for that delicious aroma to fill the house! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is great for braising. It’s fatty, which keeps the meat moist during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use pork loin, though it may not be as tender.
Apple Cider: I love using unfiltered cider for a stronger apple taste. If you can’t find it, regular apple juice will work, but you might lose some depth of flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness when caramelized. If you like a bolder flavor, red onions can also add a nice twist.
Apples: For a sweet and tart balance, Granny Smith is perfect. You can swap it with Honeycrisp for a sweeter profile or Fuji for a milder flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Pork?
The key to tender pork lies in the braising process. A low and slow approach allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in a fork-tender texture. Here are some tips:
- Always sear the meat first. This adds flavor and locks in juices.
- Cook at a consistent low temperature. 325°F (163°C) is ideal—too high can dry the meat out.
- Cover the pot during cooking. This steams the pork, keeping it moist.
- Let it rest after baking. Resting helps redistribute the juices for a tastier bite.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite! Happy cooking!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables and Liquid:
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith)
- 2 cups apple cider (unfiltered if possible)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
For Garnish:
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 3 to 3½ hours of cooking in the oven. You’ll simply need to let it braise until the pork is tender. The waiting part will surely be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the perfect temperature for slow-cooking the pork until it’s wonderfully tender.
2. Prepare the Pork Shoulder:
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Generously season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper all around. This will enhance the flavor as it cooks!
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork shoulder, searing it on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. After browning, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
4. Cook the Onions:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they are soft and lightly golden. This should take about 5–7 minutes, and the smell will be delicious!
5. Add Garlic and Apples:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced apples. Cook these together for another 2–3 minutes until everything is fragrant and starting to soften.
6. Combine Your Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Add in the brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf, mixing everything together well.
7. Return the Pork:
Now, place the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, nestling it among the onions and apples. Bring the liquid just to a gentle simmer.
8. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let the pork braise for approximately 3 to 3½ hours, or until it’s tender enough that it pulls apart easily with a fork.
9. Rest the Pork:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pork shoulder from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Tent it with foil and allow it to rest for about 10–15 minutes while you finish the sauce.
10. Reduce the Sauce:
Meanwhile, take the pot with the cooking liquid and place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to thicken the sauce, concentrating those fabulous flavors.
11. Serve:
Finally, shred or slice the pork shoulder as desired and serve it topped with the delicious apple-onion sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your tender, flavorful apple cider braised pork shoulder!
Dig in and savor every bite of this delightful dish! 🍏🍖
FAQ for Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
While pork shoulder is ideal for braising due to its marbling and flavor, you can also use pork butt or even chicken thighs for a quicker cooking option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook much faster than pork shoulder.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you can’t find apple cider, you can use apple juice as a substitute, although it may be a bit sweeter. For a more complex flavor, consider mixing equal parts of apple juice and chicken broth.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed for moisture.
Can I Prepare This Dish in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After searing the pork, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The result will be equally delicious and tender!
