Introduction

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful dish that combines the richness of pork with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork shoulder becomes fall-apart tender while absorbing the aromatic flavors of onions, garlic, fresh herbs, and spices. The apple cider adds natural sweetness and depth, creating a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the savory meat. This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners, weekend feasts, or holiday gatherings, offering a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it melds savory and sweet in a perfect harmony. The slow braising process allows the pork to become incredibly tender, while the apple cider infuses it with a gentle sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the meat. Aromatic herbs and sautéed onions and garlic enhance the flavor, creating a deep, comforting taste that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet homey, perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect Sweet & Savory Balance: The apple cider adds natural sweetness and tanginess.
• Tender, Fall-Apart Pork: Slow-braised for maximum flavor and texture.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Minimal hands-on prep, but yields a gourmet-style dish.
• Aromatic & Flavorful: Fresh herbs, onions, and garlic create a complex, comforting aroma.
• Versatile: Can be served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.

Time & Serving Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2.5–3 hours (braising time)
• Total Time: 3–3.5 hours
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 3–4 lb (1.5–1.8 kg) pork shoulder, bone-in or boneless
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Aromatics & Braising Liquid:

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought, unsweetened if possible)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: 1 apple, sliced thinly for extra sweetness

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Sear Pork Shoulder – Brown all sides in olive oil to develop flavor.
2. Prepare Aromatics & Braising Liquid – Sauté onions and garlic, combine with apple cider, broth, vinegar, and seasonings.
3. Braise the Pork – Slow-cook pork in liquid until tender.
4. Rest & Slice/Pull Pork – Let pork rest, then slice or shred.
5. Serve with Sauce – Spoon pan juices over pork for maximum flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sear the Pork

1. Pat pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
3. Sear pork on all sides until browned (3–4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics & Braising Liquid

1. In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in apple cider, broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
4. Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and optional apple slices. Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Braise the Pork

1. Return pork to the pot, nestling it into the liquid.
2. Cover with a lid and simmer on the stove over low heat for 2.5–3 hours, or bake in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for the same duration.
3. Occasionally spoon liquid over the pork to keep it moist. Pork is done when it easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Rest and Slice/Pull

1. Remove pork from pot and let rest for 10 minutes.
2. Slice or pull pork into pieces.
3. Skim fat from braising liquid if desired, then spoon sauce over pork.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve pork shoulder with mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or wild rice. Drizzle with pan juices or reduce the braising liquid for a thicker, richer sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for visual appeal.

Recipe Tips

• Searing the pork first locks in flavor and adds a beautiful crust.
• Low and slow cooking ensures tender, fall-apart pork.
• Use fresh apple cider if possible for the most vibrant flavor.
• Reserve some braising liquid and reduce it to make a concentrated sauce.

Variations

• Apple & Sage: Add fresh sage for extra herbal aroma.
• Spicy Apple Cider Pork: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• One-Pot Meal: Add diced potatoes and carrots into the braising liquid for a complete meal.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper autumn flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked pork and sauce in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pork with sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in a 325°F (165°C) oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with lid
• Tongs for searing
• Spoon for basting and serving
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I use a boneless pork shoulder?
A: Yes, boneless works well and may reduce cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Sear pork first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours with the braising liquid and aromatics.

Q: How do I thicken the sauce?
A: Remove pork and simmer the braising liquid over medium heat until reduced by half, or stir in 1–2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with water.

Q: Can I prepare ahead of time?
A: Yes! Pork can be cooked a day ahead; flavors improve overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy pork with the sweet tang of apple cider and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s simple to prepare yet yields restaurant-quality results. With versatile serving options, freezer-friendly storage, and easy variations, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful, autumn-inspired meal that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.