Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Apple cider braised pork shoulder is a tender, fall-apart dish full of warm, autumnal flavors. Slow-cooked with sweet apple cider, onions, and herbs, this hearty meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

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Ingredients

• 4 lbs bone-in pork shoulder (or boneless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Season:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork:
   • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the sliced onions to the same pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the apple cider and broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Add Apples and Pork:
   • Add the sliced apples to the pot and return the pork shoulder, nestling it into the liquid.
6. Braise in the Oven:
   • Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the pork from the pot and shred or slice it. Serve with the braising liquid and softened apples and onions spooned over the top.

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Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

• Choose the Right Cider: Use fresh, unsweetened apple cider for a balanced flavor.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours for equally tender results.
• Make Ahead: The flavors deepen overnight, so prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently.
• Pair with Sides: Mashed sweet potatoes, sautéed greens, or a crisp salad complement this dish perfectly.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg