Save A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender pork shoulder slowly braised with aromatic root vegetables in a savory broth, perfect for a cozy meal.
This recipe reminds me of family dinners on chilly evenings where the whole house fills with inviting aromas.
Ingredients
- Pork: 1 (4 lb / 1.8 kg) bone-in pork shoulder trimmed, 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp olive oil
- Aromatics: 1 large yellow onion chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 2 stalks celery chopped
- Root Vegetables: 3 large carrots peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces, 3 parsnips peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces, 2 medium turnips peeled and cut into wedges, 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes halved
- Liquid & Herbs: 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 bay leaves, 4 sprigs fresh thyme, 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season Pork:
- Pat the pork shoulder dry and season all sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear Pork:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown about 10 minutes. Transfer the pork to a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add onion, garlic, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add Tomato Paste:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Deglaze:
- Deglaze with white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add Ingredients to Pot:
- Return the pork to the pot. Add carrots, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes around the meat. Pour in the broth.
- Add Herbs:
- Add bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
- Braise:
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 to 2 ½ hours or until the pork is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.
- Finish:
- Discard bay leaves and herb stems. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing or shredding. Serve with the vegetables and braising liquid.
Save This dish is a staple in our home during fall and winter, bringing everyone together around the table.
Notes
Pairs well with a dry Riesling or Pinot Noir, and leftovers make great sandwiches.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, tongs.
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens always double-check broth and wine labels for gluten or sulfites.
Save This recipe is perfect for meal prep and freezes beautifully for later enjoyment.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the best cut of pork to use?
A bone-in pork shoulder is ideal for slow braising as it becomes tender and flavorful through long cooking.
- → Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, sweet potatoes or rutabaga can replace root vegetables like carrots or turnips for variation.
- → How do I know when the pork is done?
The pork is fork-tender when it easily shreds or slices after 2 to 2½ hours of braising at 325°F (165°C).
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Dry Riesling or Pinot Noir complements the savory flavors of the braised pork and vegetables nicely.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure your broth and wine are gluten-free, and the dish naturally fits a gluten-free diet.
- → Is it better to brown the vegetables beforehand?
Browning vegetables before adding broth deepens flavor but is optional depending on desired taste.