Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a slow-cooked comfort dish where tender pork melts into a fragrant sauce of apple cider, herbs, and caramelized aromatics. The gentle sweetness of cider balances the richness of the meat, creating layers of warmth and depth. Ideal for cold days, family dinners, or relaxed weekend meals, this dish fills the kitchen with inviting, rustic aromas while requiring minimal hands-on effort.
Servings – Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Servings: 4–6 servings
Time Required for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 3 hours
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Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
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Pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless): 1.5 kg
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Apple cider (fresh, unsweetened): 500 ml
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Yellow onions, quartered: 300 g
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Garlic cloves, crushed: 4
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Apples (firm variety), cut into wedges: 2 medium (300 g)
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Olive oil: 30 ml
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Unsalted butter (optional, for finishing): 20 g
Spices / Seasoning
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Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs
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Bay leaves: 2
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Dijon mustard: 20 g
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Salt: 12 g (or to taste)
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Black pepper, freshly ground: 5 g
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Smoked paprika (optional): 3 g
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
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Prepare the flavor base
Begin by patting the pork shoulder dry and seasoning it generously with salt and black pepper. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 160°C. This initial seasoning ensures the meat absorbs flavor deeply as it cooks. -
Sear the pork
Next, heat olive oil in a heavy ovenproof pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until deeply golden, allowing a rich crust to form. This step builds essential flavor through caramelization. Remove the pork and set aside. -
Sauté aromatics
In the same pot, add the onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Then, add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. -
Deglaze the pot
Pour in a small amount of apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the browned bits. These concentrated flavors enrich the final sauce and give the Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder its signature depth. -
Add liquids and herbs
Return the pork to the pot, then add the remaining apple cider, Dijon mustard, thyme, bay leaves, and apple wedges. The liquid should reach about halfway up the meat, ensuring gentle, even braising. -
Simmer and braise
Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Braise for approximately 3 hours, turning the pork once halfway through. Meanwhile, the meat slowly tenderizes, absorbing the aromatic cider and herbs. -
Finish and serve
Finally, remove the pork and let it rest briefly. If desired, reduce the sauce on the stovetop and whisk in butter for a glossy finish. Slice or shred the pork and spoon the sauce generously over the top before serving.
Variations of Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
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With additional meat: Add thick-cut bacon (150 g) at the sautéing stage for deeper smokiness.
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Vegetarian version: Replace pork with large chunks of roasted root vegetables and mushrooms, braised in apple cider and vegetable stock.
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Creamier version: Stir in 100 ml of heavy cream at the end for a richer, velvety sauce.
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Spicier version: Add crushed chili flakes or a sliced fresh chili during braising.
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Seasonal swaps: Replace apples with pears in autumn or add parsnips and carrots for winter warmth.
Tips for Perfect Results – Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Choose the right cut: Pork shoulder is ideal due to its fat content, which ensures tenderness during long cooking.
Control the temperature: Braise at low heat to prevent drying out and allow connective tissue to fully break down.
Enhance aroma: Fresh herbs added early and removed later keep flavors balanced and clean.
Avoid common mistakes: Do not rush the searing step; it forms the flavor foundation of the dish.
Storage and freezing: This dish stores well for up to 3 days refrigerated or can be frozen for 2 months without loss of quality.
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a timeless, comforting recipe that rewards patience with exceptional depth and tenderness. Furthermore, its versatility makes it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. With its warm aromas, rich sauce, and melt-in-the-mouth texture, this dish delivers a truly satisfying culinary experience, especially when served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
