Braised Pork Roast with Apples

Name: Braised Pork Roast with Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Yield: 6 portions
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 1.5 kg pork shoulder roast (boneless); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 2 cups apple cider; 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 4 apples (peeled, cored, and quartered); 2 onions (sliced); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 3 bay leaves; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)

210 min 6 portions Medium

All Recipes

Braised Pork Roast with Apples

Tender braised pork roast paired with sweet apples for a comforting and flavourful dish.

Prep

20 min

Cook

180 min

Total

210 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Braised Pork Roast with Apples is a hearty and comforting dish that beautifully blends the richness of pork with the sweetness of apples. This classic combination is a favourite in many households, especially during the colder months. The process of braising allows the pork to become incredibly tender, while the apples break down to form a luscious sauce. The result is a dish that is both rustic and elegant, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Servings

For the Pork Roast

For the Braise

Instructions

Prepare the Pork

Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 10 minutes total.

Pro tip: Searing the pork enhances the flavour and helps lock in juices.

Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the pork from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Deglaze the Pot

Add apple cider to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the pork to the pot. Add chicken broth, apples, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.

Pro tip: Ensure the liquid covers at least half of the pork.

Braise the Pork

Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C). Braise for 3 hours or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Pro tip: Check occasionally, adding more broth if needed.

Rest and Serve

Remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes. Slice the pork and serve with the apples and sauce.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Choose a pork shoulder roast for optimal tenderness.</li><li>Use firm apples like Granny Smith to hold their shape during cooking.</li><li>Sear the pork to lock in juices before braising.</li><li>Deglaze the pan with apple cider for added depth of flavour.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Braised Pork Roast with Apples alongside mashed potatoes or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a light green salad or steamed vegetables. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavours will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.