Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Flavorful Delight

Ingredients

• 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large, oven-safe Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork shoulder chunks with salt and pepper. Work in batches, if necessary, to brown the pork on all sides, about 6-8 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the pork and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. Mix well to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the browned pork to the Dutch oven, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Add any accumulated juices from the pork back into the pot.
6. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for about 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Take the pork out and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the remaining sauce.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can simmer on low for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce slightly if desired.