Introduction
Braised Pork Shoulder with Potato Fennel Puree is a sumptuous dish that marries the succulent texture of slow-cooked pork shoulder with a smooth, flavorful potato and fennel puree. The blend of spices enhances the natural sweetness of the pork, while the addition of fresh fennel imparts an unexpected yet delightful twist to this hearty meal.
Tips for this recipe
For optimal results, select a well-marbled cut of pork shoulder that will render down nicely during the long cooking process. To maximize flavor absorption and tenderize the meat even more effectively, consider using a sous vide technique with your slow cooker’s setting. Ensure to reserve fennel fronds for garnishing to add both visual appeal and a hint of herbal freshness.
Why you will love this recipe
This braised pork shoulder dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a rich flavor profile with an elegant touch. It’s not only satisfying and hearty but also allows the host to showcase their culinary skills through perfectly executed braising techniques. The unique inclusion of fennel elevates it beyond traditional pork recipes, making every bite memorable.
Ingredients
- 3 medium fresh fennel bulbs with fronds attached
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated orange peel
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
- 1 4- to 4 1/3-pound boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup low-salt chicken broth
- 1 1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, quartered
Adviced equipments
For this recipe, consider the following kitchen tools for convenience and efficiency:
- OXO Good Grips 6-Piece Slow Cooker Set (2 Quart & 4 Qt): Ideal for even slow cooking of meats.
- Anova Precision Cooker Smart: Excellent sous vide equipment to tenderize the meat.
- Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker: Great for slow cooking functions.
- Cuisinart SLC-19 Stainless Steel Commercial Grade 15 Quart Slow Cooker: A heavy-duty option suitable for larger servings.
- Breville Slow Cook CombiSmart 120mm x 380mm Slow Cooker with Sauté Pan: Offers versatility in cooking methods.
- Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker Commercial Grade (20-quart): Ideal for big batches, perfect for entertaining or family meals.
- Rival Electric Slow Cooker Combo with Saute Pan and Recipe Book: A convenient all-in-one solution.
- T-fal Slow Cooker: Compact yet efficient for everyday use.
- Cuisinart Precision Cookware Slowing Crock: Smaller but precise cooking tool.
- Ninja Foodi Air Fryer Slow Cooker Combo: For those who enjoy air frying with slow cooking features.
History of the recipe
Braised meats have a rich culinary history, evolving from simple techniques to sophisticated gastronomic experiences. The art of braising pork shoulder has been cherished across cultures for centuries. Modern slow cooking technology allows this traditional method to be refined and shared with a broader audience.
Fun facts about the recipe
- The use of fennel in braised dishes is not just for flavor, but also serves as an example of how ingredients can surprise and enhance traditional pairings.
- Braising is a low-and-slow cooking technique that maximizes the tenderness and flavors of tougher cuts of meat like pork shoulder, making them more accessible to home cooks.