Braising boneless pork shoulder is a delicious and flavorful way to cook this cut of meat. By following a few simple steps, you can achieve tender, juicy pork that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients
Before you begin braising your pork shoulder, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. You will need a boneless pork shoulder, olive oil, salt, pepper, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken or beef broth, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
Step 2: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This low and slow cooking method is key to achieving a tender and flavorful pork shoulder.
Step 3: Season the pork shoulder
Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or thyme for extra flavor.
Step 4: Brown the pork shoulder
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork shoulder on all sides until it is nicely seared.
Step 5: Add the aromatics
Once the pork shoulder is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until they are softened and fragrant.
Step 6: Deglaze the pot
Add a splash of broth to the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will add flavor to your braising liquid.
Step 7: Braise the pork shoulder
Return the pork shoulder to the pot and add enough broth to cover about halfway up the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Step 8: Cook the pork shoulder
Cook the pork shoulder in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until it is fork-tender. Check the liquid levels occasionally and add more broth if necessary.
Step 9: Rest and serve
Once the pork shoulder is done braising, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your perfectly braised boneless pork shoulder with your favorite sides!
By following these simple steps, you can create a perfectly braised boneless pork shoulder that is sure to impress. Experiment with different seasonings and aromatics to customize the flavor to your liking. Have fun and enjoy the process of cooking this delicious cut of meat!