The combination of savory braised pork and sweet quince and apple sauce is a match made in heaven. And when you add in the nutty flavor of roasted chestnuts, you have a perfect fall dish that is sure to impress.
This recipe is straightforward, but takes a bit of time to simmer to perfection. So grab a glass of red wine, and let’s get started.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork shoulder (approx. 4 lbs)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 quinces, peeled and diced
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup roasted chestnuts, peeled and chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- In a large dutch oven (or oven-safe pot with a lid), heat some oil over medium-high heat.
- Season your pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot and sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add your diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add your minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Add your diced quince and apple to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes until softened slightly.
- Add your red wine to the pot and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add your chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Add your pork shoulder back to the pot, cover with a lid, and put in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily. Check the pot every hour to make sure there is enough liquid and add more if necessary.
- When the pork is done, remove it from the pot and set it aside to rest for 10 minutes. Skim any fat off the top of the liquid and discard.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it’s smooth.
- Return the pork to the pot and mix it with the sauce. Add your chopped roasted chestnuts to the pot and stir.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chestnuts and fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion:
This recipe is perfect for a cozy fall evening in. The flavors of the tender braised pork, sweet quince and apple sauce, and nutty roasted chestnuts all complement each other beautifully, and the dish is sure to impress your guests.
Plus, it’s easy to make in one pot and can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for entertaining. Give it a try and see for yourself!.