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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 140 reviews

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider, apples, and warming spices. This recipe features a savory braising liquid made with apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and thyme, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth pork perfect for fall gatherings or cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 3–4 pounds pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)

Vegetables & Fruit

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2–3 apples, cored and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups apple cider (not vinegar)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Seasonings & Others

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pork: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and dried thyme. Stir to combine. Place the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, nestling it into the liquid. Add the sliced apples on top.
  4. Braise the Pork: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  5. Shred and Serve: Remove the pot from the oven. Carefully take out the pork shoulder and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the pork using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce and apples. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Consider adding carrots or celery to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Experiment with spices such as allspice or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
  • Serve the braised pork over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Can be prepared in a slow cooker by searing pork and sautéing onions first, then cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently.

Keywords: apple cider pork shoulder, braised pork shoulder, fall comfort food, slow cooked pork, apple cider recipes

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/apple-cider-braised-pork-shoulder-recipe/