This tender apple cider braised pork shoulder is comfort food at its best! With sweet apple cider and juicy pork, it’s perfect for cozy dinners. Every bite is packed with flavor!
I love how the house smells amazing while it cooks. Plus, you can enjoy the leftovers in a sandwich or a salad—so tasty! Trust me, your family will ask for seconds! 🍏🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for braising due to its perfect amount of fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use pork loin, but it may not be as tender. I always stick with shoulder for its flavor!
Apple Cider: Unsweetened apple cider adds natural sweetness without being overpowering. If cider isn’t available, feel free to use apple juice but reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Onion: I’ve found that yellow onions work best here yet you can use sweet onions if you prefer a milder taste. Red onions can also work in a pinch.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary elevate the dish with their aroma. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can be used—just halve the amount, as dried herbs are more potent!
Apples: Granny Smith apples give a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cider. Honeycrisp or Fujis can also work well, providing a bit more sweetness.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Braised Pork?
Getting that tender texture from the pork shoulder is all about low and slow cooking. Braising allows the tough fibers to break down and become tender.
- Start by searing the pork to create a flavorful crust; don’t skip this step!
- Keep the pot covered while it cooks in the oven to trap moisture. Added liquid from the cider and broth helps infuse flavors.
- Check for tenderness after 3 hours but be prepared to go longer if needed. The pork should easily pull apart.
Lastly, let the pork rest briefly after cooking before shredding. This helps retain moisture and flavor in every bite!
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 Flavor Base:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Herbs & Apples:
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 3 to 4 hours of cooking time in the oven. It’s a “set it and forget it” kind of meal. Perfect for a relaxing day at home while your kitchen fills with gorgeous aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pork:
First, let’s get that oven warmed up to 325°F (165°C). While it heats, pat down your pork shoulder with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely. Then, season the pork with salt and pepper all over—don’t be shy!
2. Searing the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a big Dutch oven or a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork in the pot. Sear it on every side until it’s beautifully browned—this should take about 4 to 5 minutes each side. When browned, remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Flavorful Base:
In the same pot, toss in your sliced onions. Sauté them until they’re soft and golden (about 5 minutes), then add the minced garlic for an extra minute until fragrant. Now, pour in the apple cider and make sure to scrape up those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds tons of flavor!
4. Combining the Ingredients:
Stir in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar until well mixed. Next, place the pork shoulder back into the pot and surround it with the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and apple slices. This is when all those cozy flavors start to come together!
5. Braising the Pork:
Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, then cover it with a lid. Now it’s time for some oven love! Transfer the pot to your preheated oven and let it braise for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is fork-tender and pulls apart easily.
6. Finishing Up:
Once cooked, carefully take the pot out of the oven. Lift the pork shoulder out and set it on a platter. Discard the bay leaves and herb sprigs—nobody wants those in their meal! If you like, you can simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop until it thickens a bit to make a delicious sauce for drizzling.
7. Shredding and Serving:
Finally, shred your pork using two forks and mix it with some of that yummy sauce and cooked apple slices. Serve warm with your choice of sides—I recommend mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a perfect pairing!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful apple cider braised pork shoulder! 🎉🍏🍖
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal due to its richness and fat content, you can use boneless pork loin or pork butt as alternatives. Just keep in mind that those cuts may cook faster and can be drier, so monitor the cooking time closely.
What if I Don’t Have Apple Cider?
If you don’t have apple cider on hand, apple juice is a viable substitute, but reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe since juice is generally sweeter. You can also mix equal parts of apple juice and water to lighten the sweetness further.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want the pork to stay moist, make sure to include some of the sauce or cooking liquid in the container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the pork and cooking the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender. This method can yield even more flavorful results!
