Delicious and Tender Italian Braised Pork Shoulder Recipe

This Italian braised pork shoulder recipe is packed with flavor and results in a tender and melt-in-your-mouth dish. Slowly braised in a rich broth with aromatic vegetables and herbs, the pork shoulder becomes incredibly tender and succulent. Serve it with creamy polenta or roasted potatoes for a satisfying and hearty meal. With a total preparing time of 3 hours, this recipe is perfect for a leisurely weekend cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 pork shoulder (5-6 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium heat.
4. Add the pork shoulder to the pot and sear it until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Remove the pork shoulder from the pot and set it aside.
6. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
7. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
8. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, followed by tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
9. Return the pork shoulder to the pot and nestle it in the liquid and vegetables.
10. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the pot.
11. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
12. Braise the pork shoulder for 2.5-3 hours, or until it is fork-tender.
13. Once cooked, remove the pork shoulder from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes.
14. While the pork is resting, strain the braising liquid and discard the solids.
15. Skim off any excess fat from the liquid.
16. Slice or shred the pork shoulder and serve it with the strained braising liquid.
17. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!

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