Description
This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a tender, fall-apart roast infused with the warm, sweet flavors of apple cider, herbs, and garlic. Slowly braised in the oven, it creates a rich, savory-sweet sauce perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables — a comforting dish ideal for fall and winter dinners.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs boneless pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter (for finishing sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and sauté for 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the pork to the pot, add thyme and rosemary, and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 3–3.5 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shredded.
- Remove the pork from the liquid and let rest for 10 minutes. Skim excess fat from the braising liquid, then simmer it on the stovetop for 5–10 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. Stir in butter for a glossy finish.
- Shred the pork and serve with the apple cider sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a diced apple or a splash of bourbon to the braising liquid.
- Leftovers are great for sandwiches, tacos, or served over mashed potatoes.
- This dish can also be made in a slow cooker on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braise
- Cuisine: American