This cozy dish features juicy pork shoulder cooked slowly in apple cider, making it super tender and full of flavor. The sweet and tangy notes from the cider will warm your heart!
I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in the pot and let it work its magic. Serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, and you’ll be in comfort food heaven! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the dish! Look for bone-in pork shoulder for maximum flavor. If you can’t find that, a boneless cut will work too. Sometimes, using a pork roast or a picnic shoulder can be good alternatives.
Apple Cider: Unsweetened apple cider brings a lovely sweetness and acidity to the dish. If unavailable, try using apple juice with a splash of vinegar. I enjoy the extra complexity that cider adds, so experimenting with different brands or types can be fun!
Onions: Yellow onions are great for caramelizing and add depth to the flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a bit of color.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme enhance the savory profile. You can easily substitute with dried herbs; just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Pork Shoulder Extra Tender?
The key to tender pork is low and slow cooking. Braising allows the meat to absorb moisture while it cooks. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by searing the pork, which helps lock in moisture and flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Keep the braising liquid at a gentle simmer in the oven—too hot can dry out the pork.
- Cook until the meat is fork-tender. This can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours depending on the size of your pork shoulder.
- Letting the pork rest after cooking keeps it juicy before shredding. It’s worth the wait!
By following these techniques, you’ll have a wonderfully tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds bone-in pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 2 apples, cored and sliced (for added sweetness and texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 3 to 4 hours to braise in the oven. The long cooking time is what makes the pork super tender and flavorful. You’ll love how simple it is to make a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready!
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is important to make sure the pork cooks evenly.
2. Season and Sear the Pork:
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels, then season it generously all over with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it’s nicely browned—this should take about 4 to 5 minutes per side. After that, remove the pork and set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden—this will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the lovely aroma!
4. Deglaze with Cider:
Pour in the apple cider to deglaze the pot, making sure to scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes so it reduces slightly.
5. Add More Flavor:
Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Toss in the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Now, return the seared pork shoulder back to the pot. If you’re using apples, nestle those slices around the pork for extra sweetness!
6. Braise the Pork:
Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Braise for about 3 to 4 hours or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Check occasionally and make sure the liquid doesn’t evaporate too much; if it looks low, add a bit more broth or cider.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the pork is done, take the pot out of the oven. Move the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to remove the herbs and bay leaves from the liquid!
8. Finish the Sauce:
Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid. If you want a thicker sauce, you can reduce it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
9. Shred and Serve!
Finally, shred the pork with two forks and toss it in some of the braising liquid to keep it nice and moist. Serve with a spoonful of the delicious sauce over the top. Enjoy your tender, flavorful apple cider braised pork shoulder with your favorite sides!
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted veggies—perfect for a comforting meal!
FAQ for Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use Boneless Pork Shoulder Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder if that’s what you have on hand! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless cuts may cook a bit faster. Be sure to check for tenderness around the 3-hour mark.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cider to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze the Braised Pork?
Absolutely! Allow the pork to cool completely, then place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
What Sides Pair Well with This Dish?
This braised pork is delicious served with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad or coleslaw can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors!