Rich and Savory Dark Beer Braised Pork Shoulder

Rich and Savory Dark Beer Braised Pork Shoulder

“`html

This dish features succulent pork shoulder slowly braised in a flavorful blend of dark beer, vegetables, and herbs. The combination of the pork’s natural richness and the depth provided by the beer creates a mouthwatering masterpiece. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its tender meat and complex flavors.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 bottle (12 oz) dark beer (such as stout or porter)
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork shoulder and sear it on all sides until it is well-browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set it aside.
4. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes until it starts to caramelize.
6. Pour in the dark beer, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds great flavor). Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
7. Return the pork shoulder to the pot, making sure it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid.
8. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
9. Carefully remove the pork shoulder from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it into large chunks with two forks.
10. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the braising liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
11. Serve the braised pork shoulder over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this dark beer braised pork shoulder—a perfect dish to warm up any dinner table.
“`