Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder: Easy Comfort Food Bliss Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Slow-cooked with aromatic herbs and tangy apple cider, it results in tender, juicy beef that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef shoulder
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Step 2: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Season the beef shoulder evenly with salt and pepper, then sear it in the hot oil until browned on all sides.
4. Step 4: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
5. Step 5: Pour in the apple cider and add thyme and bay leaves to the pot.
6. Step 6: Cover the Dutch oven and place it in the oven. Braise the beef for 3 to 4 hours, or until it’s tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
7. Step 7: Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness before braising.
• Substitute fresh thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
• Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables to soak up the flavorful braising liquid.

Storage

Store any leftover beef and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to preserve tenderness and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, beef chuck or brisket are good alternatives that also become tender with slow braising.

Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?

Absolutely. After searing and adding liquids, cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, checking occasionally to maintain liquid levels.

Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder: Easy Comfort Food Bliss Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 72 reviews

This Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder is a comforting and flavorful dish where tender beef shoulder is slowly braised in a fragrant mixture of apple cider, onions, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. The slow cooking method infuses the beef with rich, savory-sweet notes, making it perfect for a hearty family meal or special occasion.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef and Seasoning

• 3 pounds beef shoulder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Oil

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for slow braising the beef shoulder.
2. Heat the Oil: Place a large Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil, warming it until shimmering.
3. Sear the Beef: Season the beef shoulder evenly with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the hot Dutch oven and sear on all sides until a rich brown crust forms, enhancing flavor and locking in juices.
4. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the apple cider, then add the thyme and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
6. Braise in Oven: Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow the beef to braise slowly for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let the beef rest covered for about 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Using a Dutch oven is recommended for even heat distribution during braising.
• Low and slow cooking ensures beef becomes tender and flavorful.
• Resting the meat after cooking enhances juiciness and texture.
• Apple cider adds a subtle sweetness balancing the savory beef perfectly.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently for another meal.

Keywords: apple cider braised beef, braised beef shoulder, comfort food, slow cooked beef, oven braised beef, fall recipe