Braised Pork Shoulder

Name: Braised Pork Shoulder
Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients: One 4-pound bone-in pork shoulder roast; Salt and fresh-ground black pepper; 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped sage or marjoram; 1 onion, peeled and coarsely chopped; 1 carrot, peeled and coarsely chopped; 1 celery stalk, coarsely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups chicken stock (page 47) or water; Gremolata (see page 17)

December 20, 2011

A shoulder roast of pork, lamb, or beef is ideal for braising; the shoulder is an economical cut with lots of flavor, and long, slow cooking yields succulent meat and a deep savory sauce. A braised shoulder is delicious accompanied by soft polenta, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or creamy beans to soak up the tasty juices. A roast with the bone in will hold together better during cooking and have more flavor. If the meat is boneless, it is helpful to tie it after seasoning. The braise will taste even better if seasoned a day before cooking and braised a day before serving.

Cooks' Note

Add dried chile or other spices to the braise, and, if you like, 2 or 3 chopped tomatoes or 1/2 cup white or red wine.

Recipe notes

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

Gochujang Turkey Sweet Potatoes

Fully loaded, meal-prep friendly, and ready to be dressed up, down, or sideways.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Dulce de Leche

Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.