Braised Pork Shoulder with White Beans is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful. The slow-cooked pork shoulder becomes tender enough to melt in your mouth, while the creamy white beans absorb all the savory juices and aromatics, creating a dish that feels both rustic and indulgent. Every bite offers a perfect balance of protein and legumes, with a gentle harmony of herbs and spices that make it irresistibly cozy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns simple ingredients—pork, beans, aromatics—into something spectacular. The slow braise ensures every piece of pork is juicy and tender, while the beans soak up the meaty richness. It’s the kind of meal that feels homemade, wholesome, and satisfying, yet is elegant enough to serve to guests.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Flavor-packed: Every bite is layered with savory, herby goodness.
• Comforting: Perfect for cooler months or cozy family dinners.
• Versatile: Can be served with crusty bread, rice, or even mashed potatoes.
• Impressive but easy: Minimal active cooking; most of the magic happens while it braises.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes – 3 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: French-inspired / Rustic European

Ingredients

For the Pork Shoulder:

• 2–2.5 lbs (900–1100 g) pork shoulder, bone-in or boneless
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves

For the White Beans:

• 2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), soaked overnight and drained
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional, can replace with more broth)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon zest

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Preheat & Season

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

• In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until golden brown (3–4 minutes per side).
• Remove pork and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

• In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
• Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
• Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves; stir to release fragrance.

Step 4: Deglaze & Combine

• Pour in white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
• Add soaked white beans and remaining broth.
• Place pork shoulder back in the pot, nestling it among the beans and vegetables.

Step 5: Braise

• Bring the liquid to a simmer on the stovetop.
• Cover the pot and transfer to preheated oven.
• Braise for 2.5–3 hours until pork is fork-tender and beans are creamy.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

• Remove pork and shred or slice as desired.
• Stir beans and vegetables, season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve

• Spoon white beans onto plates and top with pulled or sliced pork shoulder.
• Drizzle with a little of the braising liquid.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes.

Recipe Tips

• Searing: Don’t skip browning the pork; it adds deep flavor.
• Beans: Soaking beans overnight ensures even cooking and reduces gas-causing compounds.
• Make Ahead: Braise a day ahead; flavors improve overnight.
• Thickening Sauce: If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to reduce.

Variations

1. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
2. Spicy Version: Include chipotle peppers in adobo and smoked paprika for heat.
3. Creamy Bean Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
4. Vegetable-Loaded: Add parsnips, turnips, or potatoes for a one-pot meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Special Equipment Needed

• Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

• Yes! Use 4 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed. Reduce braising liquid by 1 cup since canned beans are already cooked.

Q2: Can I make this on the stovetop only?

• Absolutely. Simmer on low heat for 3–4 hours until the pork is tender.

Q3: What cut of pork is best?

• Pork shoulder (also called pork butt or Boston butt) is ideal for slow braising because it’s fatty and tender.

Q4: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

• Yes. Sear pork and sauté aromatics first, then transfer to slow cooker with beans and liquid. Cook on low 6–8 hours.

Q5: Can I omit wine?

• Yes, simply replace with additional broth.

Conclusion

Braised Pork Shoulder with White Beans is the kind of dish that defines comfort food. It’s rich, hearty, and filled with flavors that deepen over time. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is both approachable and impressive. Once you try it, the tender pork and creamy beans will become a family favorite, warming hearts and bellies alike.