Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Pork Shoulder in a Dutch Oven is the perfect answer. It’s a fantastic example of slow-cooked perfection, resulting in fall-apart tender pork that's bursting with deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. This easy recipe for healthy meals is also surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks seeking delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup dry red wine (or more chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Pork Shoulder
Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes total. Remove the pork from the Dutch oven and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Braise the Pork
Return the seared pork shoulder to the Dutch oven. Pour in the chicken broth and red wine (or additional broth). Stir in the Worcestershire sauce. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven tightly.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Transfer the Dutch oven to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in effortlessly.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Remove the pork shoulder from the Dutch oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork. Skim off any excess fat from the braising liquid. You can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes. Return the shredded pork to the Dutch oven and toss to coat it in the delicious braising liquid.
Tips for the Best Pork Shoulder:
- Choose a good quality pork shoulder: Look for one with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Don't overcrowd the Dutch oven: Ensure there's enough space for the pork to brown properly.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A splash of Dijon mustard or a few bay leaves would also be delicious additions.
- Serve it up: This delicious dish is amazing on its own, or serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce. This makes a fantastic healthy meal prep option too!
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms to the Dutch oven during the braising process.
- Make it spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Use different liquids: Experiment with different types of broth or wine. Apple cider or beer would also be delicious options.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe for pork shoulder in a Dutch oven is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. The result is a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!