Apple Cider Braised Beef Shoulder: Easy Comfort Food Bliss Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for slow braising the beef shoulder.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil, warming it until shimmering.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the apple cider, then add the thyme and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- 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.
- 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
