Braising is a cooking method that involves browning meat on the stovetop and then simmering it in liquid for a long period of time. This method is perfect for tougher cuts of meat like pork shoulder, as it helps to break down the connective tissues and create a tender and flavorful dish. When using the Instant Pot, braising becomes a quick and easy process, making it the perfect tool for busy home cooks looking to make a delicious meal.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork Shoulder
When making braised pork shoulder in the Instant Pot, it is important to start with the right cut of meat. Look for a piece that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process. You can use either bone-in or boneless pork shoulder for this dish, depending on your preference.
Seasoning the Pork Shoulder
Before you start cooking, season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. You can also add additional spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish. Some popular additions include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Make sure to rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure that it is evenly coated.
Browning the Meat
To achieve a deep, rich flavor in your braised pork shoulder, it is important to brown the meat before you start cooking. Heat a small amount of oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting and sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it is golden brown. This step helps to caramelize the meat and create a Maillard reaction, which adds complexity to the dish.
Adding Liquid and Vegetables
After browning the meat, add your choice of liquid to the Instant Pot. You can use broth, wine, beer, or a combination of these to create a flavorful braising liquid. Next, add in your choice of vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. These will help infuse the pork shoulder with additional flavor as it cooks.
Pressure Cooking
Once you have added the liquid and vegetables, secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to the pressure cooking setting. Cook the pork shoulder for about 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of the meat and the desired level of tenderness. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Finishing Touches
After the pork shoulder has finished cooking, you can remove it from the Instant Pot and shred the meat using two forks. If desired, you can thicken the braising liquid to create a sauce to serve over the meat. Simply mix together equal parts of cornstarch and water and add it to the liquid in the Instant Pot. Cook on the sauté setting until the sauce thickens, then pour it over the shredded pork shoulder.
Serve the braised pork shoulder with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. This flavorful and tender dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends, and the best part is, it was made in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. Enjoy!