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Instructions
1. Sear the Pork
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork chunks with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with Beer
- Pour in the beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off slightly.
4. Add the Braising Liquid
- Stir in the maple syrup, broth, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.
- Return the seared pork to the pot, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer gently for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
- If using an oven, braise at 325°F (160°C) for the same amount of time.
6. Finish and Serve
- Remove the pork and shred or slice as desired.
- Simmer the sauce uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Serve the pork with the reduced sauce drizzled over the top.
Serving Suggestions
- With mashed potatoes – The creamy texture soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
- Over buttered egg noodles – A hearty, satisfying combination.
- With roasted vegetables – Sweet carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the dish well.
Tips for Success
✔️ Choose the right beer: Darker beers like stout, porter, or brown ale give the dish deeper flavor, while lighter beers like a lager create a milder taste.
✔️ Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
✔️ Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the maple syrup slightly or use honey as a substitute.
Final Thoughts
This Braised Pork with Beer and Maple Syrup is a true celebration of bold flavors and slow-cooked goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy with a cold beer or a glass of red wine for the ultimate experience!
Would you like a variation of this recipe? Let me know! 😊
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