Herb-Infused Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder
This Herb-Infused Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder is the ultimate comfort food, featuring fork-tender pork that's been stewed to perfection in a rich, savory broth. Infused with aromatic rosemary, hearty mushrooms, and sweet onions, this dish is enhanced by the addition of sherry wine that brings a depth of flavor like no other. Nestled among chunks of creamy, diced potatoes, this one-pot wonder cooks slowly throughout the day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork shoulder
3 lb (trimmed of excess fat)
Vegetable broth
1 quart
Sherry wine
1 cup
Potatoes
3 cups (peeled and diced)
Onions
2 cups (chopped)
Fresh mushrooms
2 cups (sliced)
Dried rosemary
1 tablespoon
Ground black pepper
1 teaspoon
Salt
to taste
Instructions
1
Start by placing the pork shoulder into the slow cooker, ensuring it fits comfortably.
2
In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable broth and sherry wine. Pour the mixture over the pork roast, allowing it to soak in.
3
Add the peeled and diced potatoes, chopped onions, and sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker surrounding the pork.
4
Sprinkle the dried rosemary and ground black pepper evenly over the top.
5
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for a minimum of 8 hours. For best results, let it cook for up to 10 hours to reach optimal tenderness.
6
Once the pork is tender and fully cooked, remove it carefully from the slow cooker and shread it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the sauce for flavor absorption.
7
Season with salt to taste before serving hot.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a 3 lb pork shoulder, trimmed of excess fat.
What are the primary liquid ingredients?
The primary liquids are 1 quart of vegetable broth and 1 cup of sherry wine.
Which vegetables are included in the braise?
The dish includes 3 cups of diced potatoes, 2 cups of chopped onions, and 2 cups of sliced fresh mushrooms.
What is the main herb used for seasoning?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary.
How long does the pork need to cook?
The pork should be cooked on low for a minimum of 8 hours, though 10 hours is recommended for optimal tenderness.
What setting should I use on my slow cooker?
The slow cooker should be set to the low setting.
Do I need to brown the pork before putting it in the slow cooker?
According to the instructions, you can place the pork shoulder directly into the slow cooker without prior browning.
How should the potatoes be prepared?
The potatoes should be peeled and diced into chunks before being added to the slow cooker.
Can I use a different type of wine?
While the recipe specifies sherry wine for its unique depth of flavor, you can likely substitute other dry cooking wines if necessary.
How do I handle the pork once it is finished cooking?
Carefully remove the tender pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Should the shredded pork be served dry?
No, you should return the shredded pork to the sauce in the slow cooker for better flavor absorption.
When should I add the salt?
Salt should be added to taste just before serving.
What is recommended to serve alongside this dish?
It is recommended to serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Is this recipe considered a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is described as a one-pot wonder where everything cooks together in the slow cooker.
How much black pepper is required?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
How much onion is needed for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of chopped onions.
Can I use beef broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, while the recipe uses vegetable broth, beef broth would also complement the savory flavors of the pork.
How many mushrooms are used?
The recipe uses 2 cups of sliced fresh mushrooms.
Is the pork shoulder supposed to be whole during cooking?
Yes, place the whole pork shoulder into the slow cooker and shred it only after the cooking process is complete.
How much liquid is used in total?
The recipe uses 5 cups of liquid in total: 4 cups (1 quart) of broth and 1 cup of sherry.
Is this a good recipe for a family gathering?
Yes, it is designed as a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
What is the preparation for the onions?
The onions should be chopped before being added to the pot.
Does the recipe require fresh rosemary?
The recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary, though fresh could be used if adjusted for potency.
What is the goal texture for the pork?
The goal is for the pork to be fork-tender and easily shreddable.
Do I need to stir the ingredients during the 8-10 hour cook time?
The instructions do not require stirring; simply cover and let it cook slowly.
What kind of potatoes work best?
The recipe suggests creamy, diced potatoes, so varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well.
How much pork should I buy?
Purchase a 3 lb pork shoulder for this specific recipe.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe because it mainly involves assembly and slow cooking.
What provides the savory depth in the sauce?
The combination of vegetable broth, sherry wine, mushrooms, and rosemary creates the rich, savory flavor.
Should I peel the potatoes?
Yes, the recipe instructions specify that the potatoes should be peeled and diced.