This Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a warm, comforting dish. The pork becomes super tender as it cooks in sweet apple cider, making every bite juicy and full of flavor!
When I make this, I can’t help but envision cozy family dinners. Serve it with mashed potatoes, and trust me, you’ll be the star of the table! 🍏🥩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the dish! You can use either bone-in or boneless, but boneless is easier to shred later. If you can’t find pork shoulder, use pork butt or a similar cut for great results.
Apple Cider: Make sure to use fresh apple cider for that sweet flavor. If you don’t have cider, unsweetened apple juice can work, but it won’t have the same depth. Avoid cider vinegar—it’s too acidic!
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. You can substitute vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water if you’re in a pinch.
Onion: I usually opt for yellow onions for their natural sweetness, but you can easily swap in white onions or shallots if needed. Red onions can add color but have a sharper taste.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, Italian seasoning or even a bit of sage can work too!
How Do I Brown the Pork Properly?
Browning the pork is an important step for flavor. It creates a nice crust that locks in juices! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot on medium-high and let the oil get hot—test it by adding a tiny drop of water; it should sizzle.
- Carefully add the pork shoulder, and don’t crowd the pot—work in batches if necessary.
- Let it sear without moving it for the first few minutes to develop that perfect brown color.
- Turn the meat to brown all sides, which takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Once browned, remove it and let it rest to maintain juices while you prepare the onions.
With this step done right, your braised pork shoulder will be bursting with flavor! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids:
- 2 cups apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Flavorings:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Extras:
- 2 apples, cored and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for prep and about 3 hours for cooking. Plus, you’ll let the pork rest for 15 minutes once it’s out of the oven. It’s a little wait, but the flavors are so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it’s ready for cooking once the prep is done.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season all sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper—this will enhance the taste!
3. Brown the Pork:
In a large, heavy oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork shoulder, browning it on all sides until it has a beautiful golden crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Reduce the heat to medium, then add the sliced onions to the pot. Sauté them until soft, about 5 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about another minute until it smells amazing!
5. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the apple cider, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves. This sweet-sour mix will create a lovely base for the pork.
6. Add the Pork Back:
Return the pork shoulder to the pot. Tuck in the fresh thyme, the rosemary sprig (if using), bay leaf, and the apple slices around the pork.
7. Bring to a Simmer:
Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer on the stovetop—this helps all those flavors meld together.
8. Braise in the Oven:
Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise the pork for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until it’s fork-tender and pulls apart easily when you give it a little tug.
9. Rest the Pork:
Once done, take the pot out of the oven and let the pork rest, covered, for about 15 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices inside.
10. Prepare the Sauce (Optional):
If you like, skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid, then simmer the remaining liquid on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken it into a sauce.
11. Shred and Serve:
Shred or slice the pork shoulder and plate it up, spooning the delicious braising liquid and apples over the top.
12. Enjoy!
Serve hot, paired with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy this tender, flavorful apple cider braised pork shoulder with family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can also use pork butt or even a pork loin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, with leaner cuts needing less time in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the pork cool down before sealing it. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or cider if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the pork and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and shreddable. Just follow the same steps for adding liquids and herbs!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This apple cider braised pork shoulder pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a hearty salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or crispy Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal!
