Apple Cider Pulled Pork with Caramelized Onion and Apples Recipe

Cook Time: 380 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 (12 fluid ounce) bottles hard apple cider
• cup brown sugar, divided
• 1 (2 pound) pork tenderloin
• cup butter
• 1 large onion, cut into strips
• teaspoon ground cinnamon
• teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 large Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored, and sliced
• 6 hard rolls, split

Directions

Step 1: In a slow cooker, combine the hard apple cider with cup of brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then add the pork tenderloin. Cook on Low for 6 hours until the pork is very tender. Once finished, shred the pork using a fork.

Step 2: About 20 minutes before the pork is done, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes well-browned, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cup of brown sugar with cinnamon, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir this mixture into the browned onion in the skillet.

Step 4: Add the sliced apples to the skillet along with the brown sugar mixture. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: To serve, spoon the shredded pork and apple-onion sauce over the split rolls.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 653
• Fat: 23g (29% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (60% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 125mg (42% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 408mg (18% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 67g (25% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 44g
• Protein: 32g (64% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 6mg (7% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 79mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 601mg (13% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

The origins of pulled pork can be traced back to the Southern United States, where slow-cooked, tender pork became a staple dish. Its history dates back to the colonial era, when cooking meat slowly over an open flame or in a slow cooker was a practical method of preparing food. The addition of apple cider and caramelized onions and apples in this recipe reflects the region's love for combining savory and sweet flavors, with apple cider being a key ingredient in many traditional Southern dishes, especially in the fall. Over time, this combination of pork, apples, and cider evolved into the delicious, tangy dish we know today as Apple Cider Pulled Pork with Caramelized Onion and Apples.

Regional Variations

While pulled pork is a beloved dish across the United States, its preparation varies by region. In the South, slow-cooked pork is often served with a vinegar-based sauce, while in other areas like the Midwest, barbecue sauce may be the preferred accompaniment. This recipe stands out due to its use of apple cider, which imparts a sweet and slightly tart flavor that complements the richness of the pork. The addition of caramelized onions and apples is a nod to the fall harvest, where apples are in abundance, and it brings a unique sweetness and depth of flavor that is less common in traditional pulled pork recipes.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets Apple Cider Pulled Pork apart from other pulled pork dishes is the use of apple cider in the cooking process. Most traditional pulled pork recipes use either water or a savory broth to braise the meat, but the addition of apple cider adds a distinct sweetness and acidity. Additionally, caramelizing onions and apples together enhances the flavor profile, providing a contrast of savory, sweet, and tangy elements in every bite. This is different from many pulled pork recipes that focus primarily on savory seasonings or sauces without incorporating fruit for sweetness.

Where It's Usually Served

This dish is typically served in a casual dining setting, such as at barbecues, family gatherings, or fall festivals. The combination of slow-cooked pork, caramelized onions, and apples is hearty and comforting, making it perfect for cool autumn days. Its often served on soft rolls or buns, making it easy to enjoy as a sandwich, though it can also be paired with side dishes like cornbread, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. The balance of savory and sweet flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for both casual and festive occasions.

Interesting Facts

• The use of hard cider in cooking dates back centuries and was popular in many parts of Europe before becoming a staple in the U.S.
• Caramelizing onions and apples together brings out the natural sugars in both ingredients, creating a rich, syrupy glaze that enhances the dish.
• Apple cider vinegar, which is often used in Southern barbecue, is believed to have health benefits, such as aiding digestion and boosting the immune system.
• While the classic pulled pork is typically made from pork shoulder or butt, this recipe uses pork tenderloin for a leaner version that still maintains the tenderness achieved through slow cooking.
• Apple cider, especially hard cider, is a great ingredient for tenderizing meat due to its natural acidity and sweetness, which work together to break down fibers in the pork.

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