Smoky Braised Pork Shoulder

Transform your dinner table with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors of Smoky Braised Pork Shoulder. This comforting dish combines succulent pork shoulder, slow-braised to perfection, with a bold seasoning blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder for a deep, smoky flavor that will impress any crowd. Searing the pork before braising locks in flavor, while the addition of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a splash of apple cider vinegar creates a deeply savory braising liquid. Slow-cooked with fresh thyme and bay leaves, this dish is as aromatic as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this versatile recipe shines when served with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. Ready to wow your taste buds? This smoky pork shoulder recipe is your next go-to for comfort food bliss!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 14 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and garlic powder.

Step 3

Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 4

In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 5

Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside.

Step 6

In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 7

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Step 8

Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze and release any browned bits.

Step 9

Return the pork shoulder to the pot. Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.

Step 10

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Step 11

Braise the pork shoulder for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Step 12

Remove the pot from the oven. Discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.

Step 13

Using two forks, shred the pork directly in the pot, mixing it with the braising liquid for added flavor.

Step 14

Serve the smoky braised pork shoulder with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2901.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5038.1

Total Fat 393.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 131.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 1270.1mg	0%
Sodium 10398.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 47.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.5g	0%
Total Sugars 18.5g
Protein 341.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 423.8mg	0%
Iron 25.4mg	0%
Potassium 6457.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 69.5%

Protein: 26.8%

Carbs: 3.8%