This delicious pulled pork recipe is slow-cooked in apple cider, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. It is then served with caramelized onions and apples for a sweet and savory combination. The pork is juicy and perfectly seasoned, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Prepare this mouthwatering meal in just a few simple steps and enjoy the incredible aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 onions, sliced
- 2 apples, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Season the pork shoulder with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork shoulder on all sides until it develops a golden crust.
- Remove the pork shoulder from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook the onions over medium heat until they become caramelized, stirring occasionally. This process may take about 15 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Return the pork shoulder to the pot and pour in the apple cider. The liquid should cover about 3/4 of the pork.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Allow the pork to slow-cook for approximately 5-6 hours, or until it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- During the last hour of cooking, add the sliced apples to the pot and let them cook alongside the pork.
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid and return the shredded pork to the pot. Mix it with the caramelized onions and apples.
- Serve the apple cider pulled pork warm on a bun or with your favorite side dishes.
