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Fall-Apart Slow Cooker Pork Shoulder: Easy Apple Cider Recipe

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This slow cooker apple cider braised pork shoulder is incredibly tender and flavorful, made with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers fall-apart meat every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds bone-in or boneless pork shoulder (pork butt)
  • 2 cups apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced into thick rings
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
  • Brioche buns, crusty rolls, or rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the dry rub: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and cayenne (if using). Mix well and set aside.
  2. Prep the pork shoulder: Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub Dijon mustard all over the pork, then sprinkle the dry rub evenly over every surface. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Sear the pork: Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat with a splash of vegetable oil or butter. Sear the pork for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden-brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  4. Build the braising liquid: Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add smashed garlic and cook 30 seconds. Pour in apple cider and apple cider vinegar, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 1 minute, then pour over pork in slow cooker.
  5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until pork is fork-tender.
  6. Shred the pork: Transfer pork to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Discard large fat pieces or bone.
  7. Finish the sauce: Strain braising liquid into a saucepan or fat separator. Skim off fat. Bring to a simmer, add butter, and whisk until melted. Simmer 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning.
  8. Combine and serve: Return shredded pork to slow cooker or bowl. Pour about half the sauce over and toss to coat. Serve on buns, over rice, or as desired. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

Searing the pork is highly recommended for best flavor. Cook on LOW for most tender results. Do not lift the lid during cooking. Skim fat from braising liquid for a cleaner sauce. Leftovers are even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker pork shoulder, apple cider pork, pulled pork, fall-apart pork, easy pork recipe, braised pork shoulder

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/fall-apart-slow-cooker-pork-shoulder-easy-apple-cider-recipe/