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Slow-Cooked Apple Cider Pork Roast

This dish features tender pork roast slow-cooked with apple cider and warm spices until it easily falls apart. The final result is a juicy, flavorful roast with a savory and slightly sweet sauce, complemented by aromatic cinnamon and apples that develop a rich, caramelized exterior and tender interior.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • Pork shoulder or pork roast 3 pounds: A tender, flavorful cut that’s perfect for slow cooking.
  • Apple cider 2 cups: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Apples 2, sliced into wedges: Provide sweetness and texture to balance the savory pork.
  • Ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons: Adds a warm, aromatic spice to complement the apple cider.
  • Salt 1 teaspoon: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Black pepper ½ teaspoon: Adds a subtle heat and balances the dish.
  • Olive oil 1 tablespoon: For searing the pork before slow cooking.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Skillet for searing
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs for handling the pork

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the pork on all sides for about 4 minutes until it’s nicely browned.
  3. Transfer the pork to the slow cooker.
  4. Add chopped apples, apple cider, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir to combine the ingredients and coat the pork.
  6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds.
  7. Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before shredding.
  8. Serve the shredded pork with the apples and cider from the slow cooker.
  9. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Notes

For an extra caramelization, you can broil the shredded pork briefly after returning it to the sauce, to create a slight crispy texture on the edges.