Published 9/2/2024 Ooof, what a hunk of meat! I cannot wait to serve this braised pork shoulder at my cabin for the fam. Not only will it get gobbled up instantly, but it’s also SO easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of pork roast — perfect for a cabin weekend. Just season the pork shoulder and then sear it. Add the pork, potatoes, apples, and apple cider into a Dutch oven and bake until the pork is lusciously fork tender. Yumz.
The Main Fixings for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Pork shoulder: Nothing goes better with apples than pork! The fat in the pork shoulder keeps it nice and moist while cooking, making it the perfect cut for braising. Pork seasoning: You can make your own pork rub or use your favorite store-bought blend. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will do the trick. Apple cider: The star of the show! Use pure apple cider for the best flavor. Worcestershire sauce: This adds a depth of flavor and balances out the sweetness of the apple cider. Honeycrisp apple: Thinly sliced and added to the braising liquid, these apples will infuse their delicious flavor into the pork. Baby red potatoes: These little taters hold their shape well during cooking and soak up all the flavors of the dish. Fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add a fragrant and earthy element to the dish. Dutch oven: You’ll need a heavy, oven-safe pot for braising the pork.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
We highly recommend using apple cider instead of apple juice in this recipe. Apple cider has a richer, more concentrated flavor that will give your braised pork shoulder a deeper, more complex taste. If you must use apple juice, we suggest adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the liquid for added depth.
Can I use a different kind of apple?
Of course! Honeycrisp apples are our top pick for this recipe because of their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture that holds up well during cooking. However, you can use any type of apple you prefer or have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
How to Make a Delicious Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Cooking up an entire pork shoulder may seem intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Why cook the pork shoulder to 200°F?
Pork is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF (USDA), but because we are cooking low and slow, the goal is to get it to reach 200ºF so that the meat can tenderize and break down to be easier to shred.
Don’t forget to baste!
Basting is an important step in this recipe because it helps keep the pork moist and flavorful. The apple cider not only adds flavor to the dish but also helps keep the pork from drying out as it cooks.
How to Store Leftover Braised Pork
This dish makes for great leftovers! Store any remaining pork shoulder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply heat it up on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What to Serve with This Apple Cider Pork Roast
We’ve got the pork, we’ve got the potatoes, so what else would taste delish with this apple cider pork shoulder? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Roasted veggies: Try our Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon or Honey Balsamic Roasted Carrots for a delicious and nutritious side. Salad: A simple, crisp salad would pair well with this dish. Try our French Carrot Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing or Apple Burrata Salad! Drinks: Why not go all out with the apple cider and make Spiked Apple Cider or an Apple Cider Hot Toddy to go alongside your meal? Dessert: End the night on a sweet note with this Easy Apple Crisp or Brown Butter Apple Galette.
