Autumn Recipes: Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

By | | Dinner

When the leaves turn golden and the air crisps up, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with warm, comforting dishes. This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is one of those autumn recipes that brings cozy, slow-cooked magic to your table. Tender, juicy pork infused with sweet apple cider, herbs, and aromatic vegetables—this dish will warm hearts and bellies alike.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Here’s everything you need to create this autumn masterpiece:

For the Pork Shoulder:

  • 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 3 cups apple cider (unsweetened)

  • 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock)

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

  • 2 apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), sliced

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)

  • 1 bay leaf

Required Kitchen Tools

  • Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot with lid

  • Large tongs or spatula

  • Cutting board and sharp knife

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Vegetable peeler

  • Mixing bowl (optional)

  • Meat thermometer (recommended)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Pork

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it forms a golden-brown crust—about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the apple slices, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Herbs

Return the pork shoulder to the pot. Pour in the apple cider and chicken stock until the pork is about ⅔ submerged. Add rosemary, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Braise in the Oven

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 3 to 3½ hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the pork shoulder from the pot and let rest for 10 minutes. Skim excess fat from the braising liquid, if needed. Optionally, simmer the liquid on the stovetop to reduce and thicken it into a sauce.

Serve the pork shredded or sliced, drizzled with the cider-braising sauce and accompanied by the cooked apples and vegetables.

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

  • Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) has enough fat and connective tissue to stay juicy and tender after long cooking.

  • Go Bone-In: If possible, use bone-in pork shoulder for extra flavor and richness.

  • Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing adds depth and caramelization that enhances the final dish.

  • Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping in advance.

  • Serve With: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or buttered egg noodles pair beautifully with the rich apple cider sauce.

  • Freeze Leftovers: The pork freezes well for up to 3 months—store with some braising liquid to retain moisture.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving) autumn recipes

Assuming 6 servings, here’s an estimate:

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Carbohydrates: 18g

  • Sugar: 10g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 450mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the cut of pork and type of apple cider used.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Autumn Rotation

If you’re looking for comforting autumn recipes that fill your kitchen with delicious aroma and deliver soul-satisfying flavor, this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a must-try. The natural sweetness of cider paired with savory herbs and tender pork creates a balance that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s the kind of dish that makes guests ask for seconds—and the recipe.

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