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Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder

Apple Cider Braised beef Shoulder: The Ultimate Fall Comfort Food

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Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder is a heartwarming dish that epitomizes fall comfort food. This recipe features tender beef shoulder slowly braised in rich apple cider, complemented by sweet apples and aromatic herbs. The result is a flavorful, juicy beef that can be served in various ways—whether piled high on crusty rolls, over creamy mashed potatoes, or tucked into soft tortillas. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, making it a must-try this season.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 pound boneless beef shoulder
  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons water (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned; remove and set aside.
  3. Add onions to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in apples and garlic; cook for an additional few minutes.
  4. Deglaze the pot with apple cider vinegar, then add apple cider and chicken broth along with mustard, brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
  5. Return the beef to the pot and ensure the liquid comes halfway up the meat. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly, and reduce heat to low.
  6. Braise for 3-4 hours until fork-tender. Shred the meat using two forks.
  7. Thicken sauce if desired by simmering uncovered and whisking in a flour-water mixture.
  8. Combine shredded beef with sauce before serving.

Nutrition

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