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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder for Cozy Nights

Enjoy the comforting flavors of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, perfect for cozy fall nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork
  • 4 pounds Pork Shoulder Roast Boston butt is a suitable alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
For the Braising Liquid
  • 4 cups Fresh Apple Cider Do not substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock/Broth Vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Adjust according to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Dehydrated Minced Onion Can substitute with onion powder at 1.5 teaspoons.
Aromatics
  • 1 head Garlic Cut off the top to expose cloves.
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme
  • 1 large Red Onion Can substitute with yellow onion.
Fruits
  • 3 medium Firm Apples (like Honeycrisp) Avoid using Granny Smith.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C) to prepare for braising.
  2. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, cut into 4 large pieces, and pat dry. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear pork for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Whisk together apple cider, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, and minced onion in a bowl until well combined.
  5. Tie fresh rosemary and thyme into a bundle with kitchen twine.
  6. Pour the braising liquid into the pot, add herb bundle and garlic head with the top sliced off.
  7. Cover and transfer the Dutch oven to the oven. Braise for about 3 hours, flipping halfway through.
  8. Once pork is nearly fork-tender, add sliced red onions and apple wedges around the meat; cover and braise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
  9. Allow the pork to rest in the braising liquid for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for gatherings or special occasions during the fall season.

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