Name: Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 lb pork shoulder roast or Boston butt roast; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 2 cups fresh apple cider (not apple cider vinegar); 2 cups chicken stock or broth; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion; 1 head of garlic, top sliced off opposite of the root end; 3 rosemary sprigs; 4 thyme sprigs; 1 red onion, cut into thick slices; 2 firm and slightly tart apples, peeled and cut into wedges

I have to say, this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The pork shoulder slowly simmers in a deliciously tangy apple cider broth until it’s tender enough to fall apart with just a fork. It’s perfect for those cozy weekends when you want something impressive but not too fussy to make.

What really makes this recipe stand out is how the fresh apple cider and aromatic herbs create a balance of sweet and savory that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe gives you that wonderful, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a hint of fall flavors that make it special every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe plays an important role, combining to create deep flavor and tender meat. Using fresh apple cider instead of vinegar really makes a difference, so look for a quality local cider if you can.

Pork shoulder roast: Choose a 4-5 lb cut with good marbling for juicy, tender results.
Neutral oil: Something like canola or vegetable oil works best to brown the meat without overpowering the flavors.
Fresh apple cider: Not cider vinegar—fresh cider adds natural sweetness and depth.
Chicken stock or broth: Adds savory richness and helps keep the pork moist.
Dijon mustard: A little tang that brightens the braising liquid nicely.
Dehydrated minced onion: A quick way to add savory onion flavor without chopping.
Garlic head: Slicing off the top lets the garlic soften and spread flavor during braising.
Rosemary sprigs: Fresh rosemary adds an herbal fragrance that pairs perfectly with pork.
Thyme sprigs: A classic herb that enhances the overall aroma and taste.
Red onion: Thick slices that soak up the braising flavors, adding a sweet bite.
Firm, slightly tart apples: Peeled and wedged to add a subtle fruitiness and soak up the savory juices.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the pork to unlock all those flavors.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and balance.

Variations

I love tweaking this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand. Feel free to make it your own by switching up herbs or adding a bit of sweetness or spice.

Swap apples: I sometimes use Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for a sweeter touch—both work great depending on your mood.
Add a hint of spice: A dash of cinnamon or a couple of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting depth. I tried cinnamon once and loved the warm note it gave!
Gluten-free option: Just ensure your chicken stock is gluten-free—that’s it. The rest of the recipe naturally fits.
Use pork butt: If shoulder isn’t available, Boston butt roast works just as well; they’re often used interchangeably for this recipe.

How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Pork Shoulder for Flavor

Start by patting your pork shoulder dry and seasoning it generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat your neutral oil in a heavy, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until it’s beautifully browned—this caramelization adds so much flavor. Don’t rush this step; it usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, set the pork aside.

Step 2: Build the Braise Base

In the same pot, toss in the red onion slices, dehydrated minced onion, and the garlic head with the sliced top facing up. Let them soften for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to pick up all the browned bits from the pork—that’s where the magic is! Then pour in the fresh apple cider and chicken stock. Stir in the Dijon mustard, fresh rosemary, and thyme sprigs, and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Braise Low and Slow

Carefully nestle the seared pork shoulder back into the pot, skin side up if it has skin. Arrange the peeled and wedged apples around the meat. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, then transfer it into a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven. Braise the pork for about 3 to 3 ½ hours, or until it’s fork-tender and falling apart. I like to check at 3 hours to make sure it’s juicy and not drying out—if the liquid looks low, add a splash more apple cider or stock.

Step 4: Finish and Rest

Once your pork is beautifully tender, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest in the braising liquid for 15 minutes. This resting period helps the meat reabsorb some juices and makes shredding or slicing easier. When you’re ready, remove the herbs and garlic head, then shred or slice the pork to your liking. Spoon some of the apple-onion braising liquid over top for extra moisture and flavor.

How to Serve Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe

Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving really amps up the flavors too. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin apple slices or a drizzle of extra reduced braising liquid tastes fantastic and makes it look beautiful.

Side Dishes

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the savory juices. Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips also complement the autumnal flavors perfectly, and a crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast. One of my go-to combos is buttery polenta because it balances the tender pork so nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special family gathering, I’ve shredded the pork and stacked it on toasted brioche buns with a side of tangy slaw for a fun pulled-pork style sandwich. You can also serve the pork over creamy grits topped with caramelized apples for an elegant twist. A rustic serving platter garnished with fresh apple slices and herbs always makes this dish feel festive and welcoming.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover braised pork and its juices in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. Just keep the pork and apples together to retain that lovely blend of sweetness and savoriness.

Freezing

If you want to make this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe ahead for a busy week, freezing works really well. I portion the shredded pork with some braising liquid in freezer-safe containers or bags. When properly sealed, it freezes for up to 3 months without losing flavor or moisture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm the pork gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of extra apple cider or broth to keep it juicy. If you’re in a hurry, a quick microwave zap with a bit of liquid covered loosely with a damp paper towel does the trick. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the tender meat.

FAQs

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of fresh apple cider in this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh apple cider rather than apple cider vinegar for this recipe. The fresh cider provides natural sweetness and body to the braising liquid, while vinegar is much more acidic and could overpower the flavors. If you only have vinegar, dilute it significantly and add some sweetener, but fresh cider is ideal.
How long does it take to cook pork shoulder in an apple cider braise?

The pork shoulder typically braises for about 3 to 3 ½ hours at 325°F (160°C) until it’s fork-tender. Cooking times vary slightly depending on the size and your oven, so start checking at the 3-hour mark to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
What sides go best with apple cider braised pork shoulder?

Some of my favorite sides include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, buttery polenta, or even egg noodles. Crisp salads also work well to balance the richness of the pork.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors actually improve overnight, making this a great recipe for meal prep or entertaining. Store leftovers covered in the braising liquid in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe feels like a little bit of magic in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that’s both rustic and special, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners alike. I hope you give it a try and see how the tender pork combined with the warm apple cider flavors can make a simple meal something you’ll want to come back to again and again.