PERFECT APPLE CIDER BRAISED PORK SHOULDER

I’ll always remember one autumn when a friend brought over a huge pot of something that smelled absolutely divine, filling my kitchen with a sweet and savory aroma that I couldn’t quite place; turns out, it was her famous secret weapon – an Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, slow-cooked to utter perfection. This recipe is my attempt to recreate that unforgettable flavor explosion, and trust me, you’re just a few simple steps away from a main course so tender and flavorful, it will become a family favorite.

Why This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe Works

Okay, friend, let’s talk about why this recipe is a winner. First, we’re using pork shoulder, which is a relatively inexpensive cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when braised. The apple cider adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the pork. And the aromatics—onion, garlic, herbs—they all come together to create a flavor symphony that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!).

But more than just the flavor, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can make it in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven. You can even adapt it for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. And the leftovers? Oh, the leftovers! Pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, salads… the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient Notes:

• Pork Shoulder: Look for a pork shoulder with good marbling (those little streaks of fat). That fat is what will render down and make the pork super tender and juicy.
• Apple Cider: Use real apple cider, not apple juice. Cider is unfiltered and has a richer, more complex flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the cider and helps to tenderize the pork.
• Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are classic pairings with pork and apple. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage or marjoram.

How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder: Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this amazing Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder:

Tips for the Perfect Braised Pork Shoulder

Want to make sure your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder turns out perfectly? Here are a few tips from your kitchen bestie:

• Don’t skip the searing! Searing the pork is essential for developing a rich, complex flavor.
• Use a Dutch oven. A Dutch oven is ideal for braising because it distributes heat evenly and helps to keep the pork moist. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use any oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid.
• Be patient. Braising takes time, so don’t rush the process. The longer the pork braises, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
• Check for doneness with a fork. The pork is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork.
• Let it rest. Letting the pork rest before shredding allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
• Adjust the seasonings. Taste the braising liquid after the pork is cooked and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or a touch of sweetness.

Variations and Adaptations

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Slow Cooker: To make this recipe in a slow cooker, sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
• Instant Pot: To make this recipe in an Instant Pot, sear the pork as directed, then transfer it to the Instant Pot. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural pressure release.
• Add Vegetables: Add root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to the pot during the last hour of braising for a complete meal.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chipotle pepper to the braising liquid for a little heat.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like sage, marjoram, or bay leaf.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is incredibly versatile and can be served in so many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Serve the shredded pork on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like coleslaw, barbecue sauce, or pickles.
• Tacos: Use the shredded pork as a filling for tacos, topped with your favorite salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
• Salads: Add the shredded pork to salads for a hearty and flavorful protein boost.
• Rice Bowls: Serve the shredded pork over rice with your favorite vegetables and a drizzle of the braising liquid.
• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing! Serve the shredded pork over mashed potatoes with a generous spoonful of the braising liquid.

What to Do With Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), here are a few ideas for using them up:

• Pulled Pork Pizza: Top a homemade or store-bought pizza crust with the shredded pork, barbecue sauce, and your favorite toppings.
• Pulled Pork Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with the shredded pork and cheese, then grill or bake until golden brown.
• Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese: Add the shredded pork to your favorite mac and cheese recipe for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Other Delicious Pork Recipes

If you’re a pork lover like me, you’ll definitely want to check out these other delicious pork recipes:

• For a quick and easy weeknight meal, try these Garlic Butter Pork Chops. They’re ready in under 30 minutes!
• Craving something comforting? This Crock Pot Pork Perfection is another great option for a hands-off meal.

Braised Dishes to Warm Your Soul

If you love the braising technique, you might enjoy these equally comforting recipes:

• Nothing beats a classic Slow Cooker Pot Roast on a chilly evening.
• For a rich and flavorful dish, try this French Onion Roast, it’s pure comfort.
• And if you’re looking for something hearty and satisfying, give this Beef Stew a try.
• This Pepper Steak Crock Pot recipe is another winner and a true family favorite.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a little broth or water to keep the pork moist.

Recipe Card

Conclusion

So there you have it – my foolproof recipe for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder! I hope you give it a try and experience the joy of tender, flavorful pork that melts in your mouth. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, friend!

Perfect Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe delivers incredibly tender and flavorful pork, slow-cooked to perfection. The combination of apple cider, aromatic herbs, and patient braising results in a melt-in-your-mouth main course that’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 2025

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3-4 pound pork shoulder, also known as pork butt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped optional
• Fresh parsley, for garnish optional

Equipment

• Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid
• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels
• Two forks
• Oven

Method

 

1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the apple cider and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the cider simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. If using, add the chopped apple.
7. Return the pork shoulder to the pot. The liquid should come about halfway up the side of the pork. If needed, add a little more chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot.
8. Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) and braise for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your pork shoulder.
9. Remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for 15-20 minutes.
10. Use two forks to shred the pork.
11. Serve the shredded pork with the braising liquid spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a Dutch oven and sear the pork shoulder well. Braising takes time, so be patient. Taste the braising liquid after the pork is cooked and adjust the seasonings as needed. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. To make in a slow cooker, sear pork and then cook on low for 6-8 hours. To make in an Instant Pot, sear the pork and then cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural pressure release.