Tasty Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Introduction

Tasty Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is the definition of cozy fall comfort food — rich, juicy, and infused with sweet apple cider and fresh herbs. Imagine tender pieces of pork slowly cooked in a savory apple-infused broth until they practically melt in your mouth. This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder recipe is the perfect centerpiece for a Sunday dinner, a festive holiday meal, or any time you crave something deeply satisfying and soul-warming.

The secret lies in the slow braising process that transforms a humble pork shoulder into a luxurious, fork-tender roast with a perfectly balanced flavor of apples, herbs, and garlic. Whether you call it Braised Pork Shoulder with Apple Cider, Apple Cider Pork Roast, or Cider-Braised Pork Shoulder Roast, this dish will quickly become your favorite fall dinner tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Deep fall flavor – A rich blend of sweet apple cider and savory herbs.

  • Hands-off cooking – The oven does most of the work after a quick sear.

  • Tender and juicy – Perfectly braised meat that shreds with a fork.

  • Elegant yet easy – Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings.

  • Aromatic herbs – Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate every bite.

  • Garlic and onions – Layers of flavor developed through slow roasting.

  • Apple balance – Tart apples complement the savory pork beautifully.

  • Great leftovers – Even better the next day for sandwiches or tacos.

 Ingredients

For the Pork and Braising Liquid:

  • 4 to 5 lb pork shoulder or Boston butt roast (bone-in or boneless)

  • 2 cups fresh apple cider (not vinegar)

  • 2 cups chicken broth (Better Than Bouillon recommended)

  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard – adds subtle tang and depth

  • 1 tbsp dried minced onion

  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary

  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme

  • 1 whole garlic head, halved

  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)

  • Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste

For the Roasting Pan Additions:

  • 2 tart apples, peeled and cut into wedges (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

  • 1 red onion, sliced into thick rounds

💡 Ingredient Tip: Avoid apple cider vinegar—it’s too acidic for braising. Choose a fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best natural sweetness and aroma.

 How to Make Tasty Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

Step 1: Prep and Season

Pat your pork shoulder dry and trim any large fat caps. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. This step locks in moisture and builds flavor through the Maillard reaction.

Step 3: Build the Braising Liquid

Whisk together apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and minced onion. Tie the rosemary and thyme into a small bundle with kitchen twine and set aside.

Step 4: Braise Low and Slow

Pour the liquid over the pork, nestle in the herbs and garlic head, then cover and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 3 hours. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking. The pork should be just shy of fork-tender at this stage.

Step 5: Add Apples and Onions

Remove the Dutch oven, add apple wedges and red onion rounds, then cover and bake for another 30–45 minutes until the pork is tender and the apples are soft but not mushy.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the pork rest in the braising liquid for 20–30 minutes. Squeeze roasted garlic into the sauce, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

 Pro Tips

How long should you braise pork shoulder?

Typically, 3 to 3½ hours at 325°F works best. Check for doneness by piercing the pork with a fork — it should slide in easily.

Can you make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the pork first, then transfer to your slow cooker with the liquid and herbs. Cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours.

What’s the best cider for braising pork?

Use fresh apple cider or even a mix of cider and hard cider for more depth. Avoid vinegar or sweetened juice.

 Best Ways to Serve

Pair your Tasty Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal

  • Buttered egg noodles to soak up the cider sauce

  • Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for a balanced side

  • A drizzle of the braising liquid over each serving for restaurant-level flavor

 Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 460 kcal

  • Protein: 39g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Sugar: 8g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 420mg

 Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

  • Freeze: Store portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

  • Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F with a splash of broth or cider to keep it moist.

Pro tip: The flavor deepens overnight — leftovers make incredible sandwiches, tacos, or sliders.

 FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, pork butt or pork picnic roast also works beautifully due to their marbling and connective tissue.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

Use a heavy oven-safe pot with a tight lid or tightly cover a roasting pan with foil.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavor improves as it sits. Simply reheat gently before serving.

 Recipe Variations

  • Herb Twist: Add sage or bay leaves for a deeper aroma.

  • Sweet Heat: Stir in a spoonful of maple syrup and a dash of cayenne for sweet-spicy balance.

  • Hard Cider Version: Replace half the apple cider with hard cider or dry white wine for complexity.

  • Vegetable Boost: Add carrots or parsnips during the last hour of braising.

 Conclusion

There’s something magical about Tasty Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder — the way tender pork mingles with the sweetness of apples and the earthy scent of herbs creates a dish that feels like fall in every bite. Whether served for Sunday supper or a holiday feast, it brings comfort, warmth, and satisfaction to the table.

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