Slow Cooker Apple Cider Braised Pork

Recipe View Season pork generously with salt and black pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add pork; sear on all sides until deeply browned, about 3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Transfer seared pork to a slow cooker. (Total time: ~15 minutes)

Recipe View Add shallots and celery to the same skillet over medium heat; cook and stir until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Pour in apple cider vinegar; cook, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (deglazing), until the liquid has nearly evaporated, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add this mixture to the slow cooker. (Total time: ~10 minutes)

Recipe View Add apple cider, garlic cloves, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low heat until the pork is incredibly tender but still holds its shape, about 6 hours, turning the pork every 1 to 2 hours to ensure even cooking. Transfer the cooked pork to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm. (Total time: ~6 hours)

Recipe View Strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large saucepan, discarding the solids. Place the saucepan over high heat. Bring the sauce to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, skimming off any fat that rises to the surface, until the liquid has reduced to about 1/4 of its original volume. This concentrates the flavors into a luscious sauce, about 10 minutes. (Total time: ~15 minutes)

Recipe View Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Dijon mustard and cayenne pepper. Slowly whisk in the cold butter, a little at a time, until it is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Stir in the fresh herbs, and season to taste with salt and black pepper. (Total time: ~5 minutes)

Recipe View Cut the pork into 1/4-inch thick slices. Serve immediately, drizzled generously with the decadent apple cider sauce. (Total time: ~5 minutes)