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Fall-Apart Tender Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

A comforting dish of pork shoulder braised in apple cider, resulting in tender, juicy meat infused with delightful flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3-4 lbs pork shoulder, boneless preferred
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 unit onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: carrots and potatoes for added veggies

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder if needed, then season it generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork shoulder and sear it on each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
  3. Remove the pork shoulder and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
  4. Pour in the apple cider and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Return the pork shoulder to the pot along with the thyme, rosemary, and broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 4-5 hours.
  6. Check the tenderness; the pork should fall apart easily with a fork.
  7. Drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the pork for extra flavor, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or apple cider to keep it moist.