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When making apple cider braised pork shoulder, you need key ingredients. This recipe calls for 3-4 pounds of pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks. The pork shoulder is a great cut for braising. It has fat and connective tissue that break down during cooking. This makes the meat tender and flavorful.

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Elevate your dinner experience with my Savory Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe! This mouthwatering dish combines tender pork with a rich, flavorful braising liquid made from apple cider, spices, and fresh aromatics. Perfect for any night, it's simple to prepare and pairs wonderfully with comforting sides.
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Ingredients
  

3-4 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks

2 cups apple cider (non-alcoholic)

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium apples, cored and cut into wedges (preferably honeycrisp or granny smith)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon dried thyme

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

    Sear the Pork: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder chunks with salt and pepper. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Add the Fllavors: Stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cinnamon, and dried thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the sugar dissolves and the spices are well combined.

          Deglaze with Cider: Pour in the apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

            Introduce the Apples: Return the seared pork to the pot and nestle in the apple wedges. Make sure the pork is mostly submerged in the liquid.

              Braise the Pork: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds.

                Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the pork with the sauce and apples spooned over the top.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the braised pork shoulder on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.