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Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder: Comfort Food for Fall Nights

Discover the warm flavors of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder, a comforting one-pot meal perfect for autumn nights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Braise
  • 4-5 lbs Pork Shoulder bone-in enhances the sauce's richness
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil substitute vegetable or canola oil if needed
  • 2 cups Fresh Apple Cider provides sweetness and acidity
  • 2 cups Chicken Stock/Broth can be swapped for vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard yellow mustard can be a suitable substitute
  • 1 tablespoon Dehydrated Minced Onion fresh onions are fine but adjust for quantity
  • 1 head Garlic top sliced off, essential for aromatic depth
  • 3 sprigs Fresh Herbs (Rosemary and Thyme) key for flavor; dried herbs can be used
  • 1 Red Onion thickly sliced, adds a touch of sweetness
  • 2 Firm/Tart Apples peeled and wedged, opt for Honeycrisp or Pink Lady
  • Kosher Salt essential for seasoning; use to taste
  • Freshly Cracked Black Pepper elevates overall flavor; adjust according to preference

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Gather your ingredients and prepare the workspace.
  2. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  3. Heat neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  4. Mix together the fresh apple cider, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, and dehydrated minced onion in a bowl.
  5. Add the fresh herbs and sliced top of garlic to the pot.
  6. Pour the braising liquid over the seared pork. Cover with a lid and braise for 2.5 to 3 hours.
  7. In the final 30-45 minutes, add sliced red onion and wedged firm apples around the pork.
  8. Once tender, let the pork rest in the braising liquid for about 30 minutes.
  9. Squeeze softened garlic cloves into the sauce, stir, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings and can be adapted for different dietary preferences.

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