Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Apple cider braised pork shoulder is a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish infused with the sweet and savory flavors of apple cider, onions, and herbs. Slow-cooked to perfection, this hearty recipe is ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices!

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Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 4-5 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
• 2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season and Sear the Pork:
   • Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the sliced onion to the same pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Stir in Dijon mustard, thyme, and the bay leaf.
5. Assemble for Braising:
   • Add the sliced apples to the pot and return the seared pork shoulder, nestling it into the liquid.
6. Braise in the Oven:
   • Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.
7. Rest and Serve:
   • Remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding or slicing.
   • Serve with the braising liquid spooned over the pork, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips for the Best Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: Avoid apple cider vinegar for this recipe—fresh apple cider provides the sweet, rich flavor.
• Check Liquid Levels: Add more broth or cider if the liquid reduces too much during cooking.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots, parsnips, or potatoes for a complete one-pot meal.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours for similar results.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg