As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a slow-cooked meal to gather friends and family around the table. Picture this: the rich scent of apple cider melding with tender pork shoulder wafting through your home, instantly wrapping you in comfort. That’s just the beginning of what awaits with this Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with Roasted Garlic Whipped Butternut Squash.
What started as an attempt to use what I had on hand—some apples from a recent orchard visit and a few pantry staples—transformed into a dish my family now requests on repeat. The savory flavor of the pork combined with the sweet-tart apples creates a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate, while the creamy butternut squash adds a luxurious touch.
Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or hosting a special dinner, this recipe not only brings ease to the cooking process but also guarantees smiles around the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why is Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder special?
Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for cozy gatherings, this dish brings everyone together around the table.
Fall-Apart Tenderness: Slow-cooked perfection ensures the pork is succulent and easy to shred.
Sweet and Savory Balance: The apple cider and Granny Smith apples blend beautifully, creating a delightful flavor contrast.
Rich, Creamy Texture: The roasted garlic whipped butternut squash adds an irresistible creaminess that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can relax while it simmers, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Transform your dinner routine with this comforting classic and enjoy a dish that’s sure to impress!
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to whip up this heartwarming dish!
For the Pork
- Boneless half pork butt roast – This cut is perfect for braising, yielding tender and flavorful meat.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; using fresh cloves creates a more robust flavor.
- Simply Nature Grapeseed Oil – Ideal for searing due to its high smoke point, locking in flavor before braising.
For the Braising Liquid
- Nature’s Nectar Apple Cider – The star of the dish; it infuses sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall taste.
- Simply Nature Organic Chicken Broth – Adds richness; homemade or low-sodium options work beautifully here.
- Simply Nature Organic Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens flavors and balances the sweetness of the cider.
- Burman’s Dijon Mustard – Provides a subtle tang and depth, amplifying the dish’s complexity.
For the Vegetables
- Red onion – Use its sweetness and texture to complement the apples and pork.
- Granny Smith apples – Their tartness balances the savory pork and sweet cider perfectly.
- Kosher salt & ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the best flavor.
For the Side
- Butternut squash – This starchy vegetable creates a creamy, comforting side dish when whipped.
- Head of garlic – Roasted for an extra layer of richness in the squash.
- Countryside Creamery Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess and rounds out the flavor of the squash.
Feel the warm embrace of your kitchen as you gather these ingredients for your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with Roasted Garlic Whipped Butternut Squash!
How to Make Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F and make sure there’s a rack in the center. Gather and prep your ingredients according to the list for seamless cooking.
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Stud the pork: Use a sharp paring knife to cut slits into each pork shoulder piece. Insert halves of sliced garlic into each pocket, then generously season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
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Sear the pork: In a large, heavy-bottomed, oven-safe pot, heat the grapeseed oil over medium-high. Once hot, add the pork pieces, searing 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully browned and fragrant.
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Prepare the braising liquid: In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Carefully pour this mixture over the seared pork. Bring to a boil before covering the pot and placing it in the oven. Cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until the pork is incredibly tender.
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Add the vegetables: About 30 minutes before the cook time is up, take the pot out and stir in the sliced onions and apples. Cover again and return to the oven for 20-25 minutes until softened and aromatic.
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Optional: While the pork is finishing, roast the butternut squash and garlic. Place the quartered squash on a sheet pan, chop off the top of the garlic head, wrap it in foil with oil and seasoning, and bake them together. The squash will take 2 1/2 – 3 hours, and the garlic should be removed after 45 minutes when it’s fragrant and tender.
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Make the whipped squash: Once the squash is tender, scoop it into a food processor along with the roasted garlic cloves and butter. Process until smooth, adding chicken broth as needed for your desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Shred the pork: After the pork is cooked and tender, transfer it to a cutting board or plate and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
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Serve: Create a beautiful plate by spooning the whipped roasted garlic butternut squash, topping it with the shredded cider-braised pork, and finishing with the softened apples, onions, and saucy braising liquid.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
- Perfectly Seasoned Pork: Make sure to season the pork generously with kosher salt and black pepper before searing; it enhances the flavor.
- Searing Technique: Avoid overcrowding the pot when searing the pork; this ensures a nice brown crust that adds depth to the dish.
- Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the braising liquid. If it evaporates too much while cooking, add a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
- Timing is Key: Adding the apples and onions about 30 minutes before the cook time ends allows them to soften without becoming mushy.
- Whip for Creaminess: When making the roasted garlic whipped butternut squash, don’t skip the butter or broth; they create that irresistible creamy texture.
- Slice Before Serving: For perfect portions, shred the pork after it has rested for a few minutes; this prevents it from falling apart too much and makes serving easier.
Enjoy crafting your delicious Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with Roasted Garlic Whipped Butternut Squash!
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Variations
Feel free to put your unique twist on this delightful dish and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular mustard with a gluten-free variety and use cornstarch to thicken the braising liquid if needed.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the braising liquid for a hint of heat that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cider.
- Cider Alternatives: Swap apple cider with pear cider for a nuanced sweetness bringing a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme in the braising liquid, adding an aromatic herbacious layer that enhances the overall taste.
- Fruity Fusion: Experiment with different apple varieties or toss in some dried cranberries or figs for a fruity burst amid the savory flavors.
- Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms instead of pork, letting them soak in the same braising liquid for a rich, earthy alternative that still packs a punch.
- Cooking Method: Try this recipe in a slow cooker; simply brown the pork first, then let it simmer for 8 hours on low for convenience.
- Nutty Flavor: Fold in some roasted pecans or walnuts into the whipped butternut squash, creating a delightful crunch that contrasts with its creaminess.
Let your creativity shine as you adjust and tailor this dish to fit your family’s tastes and preferences!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Elevate your dinner experience with vibrant sides that complement every flavorful bite of your hearty pork.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture provide a delightful contrast to the tender pork. Toss with balsamic glaze for added depth.
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Savory Roasted Potatoes: Golden and herb-seasoned, these potatoes are the perfect vessel for soaking up the rich braising jus from the pork.
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Light Kale Salad: A refreshing mix with a zesty lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish. Toss in sliced apples for a complementary touch!
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Homemade Applesauce: Sweet and slightly tart, this classic pairing is a nostalgic complement that enhances the apple notes in the pork.
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Buttery Cornbread: Its sweet and buttery flavors create a cozy, comforting addition that beckons to be slathered with butter alongside the meal.
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Sparkling Cider: This effervescent beverage not only echoes the apple flavors but adds a refreshing quality to the overall dining experience, making it feel festive.
Serve your Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with these delightful sides, and prepare for a symphony of flavors at your table!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder
Fridge: Store leftover pork shoulder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking to ensure freshness.
Reheating: Thaw the frozen pork in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Storage Tip for Butternut Squash: If you have leftover whipped butternut squash, store it separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to revive its flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with Roasted Garlic Whipped Butternut Squash are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pork up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning it and inserting the garlic before refrigerating. Additionally, the butternut squash can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pork gently in the braising liquid until warmed through and follow that by whipping the roasted squash with garlic and butter. This makes it so much easier to get dinner on the table without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal hassle!
Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe FAQs
What type of pork is best for braising?
For this recipe, a boneless half pork butt roast is ideal. It not only becomes fall-apart tender during cooking but also absorbs the flavors of the apple cider and other ingredients wonderfully.
How should I store leftover Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Store leftover pork shoulder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to keep moisture intact and avoid any spoilage.
Can I freeze Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shredded pork in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date to monitor freshness. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The pork is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork, typically after 2 1/2 to 3 hours in the oven. To double-check, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part; it should read at least 195°F for perfect tenderness.
Can pets eat apple cider braised pork?
While plain, cooked pork is generally safe for dogs, be careful with seasonings and herbs, as they can be harmful to pets. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you need a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients such as the chicken broth and mustard are labeled gluten-free. For a dairy-free version of the whipped butternut squash, simply omit the butter and consider using a dairy-free alternative like olive oil for creaminess.
Savory Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder with Garlic Squash
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F and gather all ingredients.
- Use a sharp knife to cut slits into each piece of pork and insert garlic cloves. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat grapeseed oil in a pot over medium-high heat and sear the pork for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Whisk together apple cider, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Pour over the seared pork and bring to a boil.
- Cover the pot and place it in the oven. Cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until tender.
- Add sliced onions and apples 30 minutes before the end of cooking time. Cover and return to oven.
- Optionally, roast butternut squash and garlic while pork is cooking.
- Process roasted butternut squash, garlic, and butter in a food processor until smooth. Add broth for desired consistency.
- Shred cooked pork with forks and serve over the whipped squash with the cooked onions and apples.