Apple cider braised beef shoulder is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. The combination of tender beef cooked slowly in a rich apple cider and broth mixture creates a deeply flavorful and aromatic meal. As the beef braises, your home will fill with the wonderful scents of garlic, thyme, and rosemary, making this dish not only delicious but also a sensory delight. Whether served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or with a side of crusty bread, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 360
- Protein: 40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 450 mg
Why Make This Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
This apple cider braised beef shoulder is a standout dish that marries the rich flavors of beef with the sweetness of apple cider. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, family dinners, or special occasions. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing all the delightful flavors of the herbs and aromatics. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as the flavors intensify and improve over time, making it a great dish for leftovers.
How to Make Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is vital for breaking down the tough fibers in the beef shoulder, ensuring a tender end result.
Step 2: Searing the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Take your 3-4 pound beef shoulder and season it generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s beautifully browned, which should take about 5-8 minutes. This step adds depth and flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
Once the beef is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Cook these vegetables until they soften, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, and 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary. This aromatic mixture will build the base flavor for your braise.
Step 4: Braising
Return the beef to the pot and pour in 2 cups of apple cider and 1 cup of beef broth. Bring everything to a simmer. After that, cover the pot and transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours or until the beef is so tender that it falls apart with a fork. This slow cooking process creates an incredible depth of flavor, making the dish truly special.
How to Serve Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
Serve your apple cider braised beef shoulder with creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the flavorful braising liquid. You can also add roasted vegetables or a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. Drizzle some of the reduced braising liquid over the meat for that extra burst of flavor.
How to Store Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
To store leftovers, allow the beef to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
- Choose Quality Meat: Look for well-marbled beef shoulder, which will yield a more flavorful and tender dish.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing—this helps retain its juices.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Delicious Variations
- Herb Variation: Switch up the herbs; try using sage or bay leaves for a different flavor profile.
- Cider Variants: For a spicier flavor, consider using spiced apple cider or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to toss in potatoes or turnips for added bulk and heartiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or brisket can be good substitutes, but ensure they have good marbling for tenderness. -
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the beef on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. -
What can I serve with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles complement the flavors well. -
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep and tastes even better the next day! -
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure your beef broth is gluten-free, and use a gluten-free apple cider if you’re cautious about cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Apple cider braised beef shoulder is a celebration of flavors that will not only satisfy your taste buds but will also make you feel warm and cozy inside. The process of cooking this dish is simple and rewarding, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will love it as much as you do! Enjoy the braising journey and the delicious results it delivers.
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Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder
- Total Time: 260 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender beef slow-cooked in a rich apple cider and broth mixture, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds beef shoulder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 chopped carrots
- 2 chopped celery stalks
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef shoulder with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides for 5-8 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in apple cider and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and falls apart with a fork.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or polenta, and drizzle reduced braising liquid over the meat.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
