ADVERTISEMENT
Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onions and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the carrots begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
#### Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Once the vegetables have softened, it’s time to deglaze the pot. Pour in the beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. These bits are packed with flavor, so make sure to get them all incorporated into the sauce. Let the beer simmer for a few minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.
#### Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Next, add the maple syrup, bay leaves, thyme, and stock to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the pork to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
#### Step 5: Braise the Pork
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Braise the pork in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Check on the pork occasionally to ensure that it’s not drying out. If the liquid level is getting too low, you can add a bit more stock or water to maintain the braising liquid.
#### Step 6: Shred and Serve
Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks. Discard the bay leaves and any tough bits of thyme. You can either return the shredded pork to the pot and stir it in with the sauce, or serve the shredded pork separately with some of the braising liquid drizzled over the top.
### Serving Suggestions
Braised pork with beer and maple syrup can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are a few ideas for serving this delicious dish:
– **On a bed of mashed potatoes**: The creamy mashed potatoes will absorb the flavorful sauce, making for a comforting and hearty meal.
– **With roasted vegetables**: Pair the pork with some roasted root vegetables, like potatoes, parsnips, and carrots, for a satisfying meal.
– **In tacos or sandwiches**: For a fun twist, use the shredded pork in tacos or sandwiches. Top with some fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
– **With crusty bread**: Serve the pork with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
### Tips and Variations
– **Beer Selection**: Experiment with different types of beer to find the flavor profile you prefer. Lighter beers like lagers or wheat beers will give the dish a milder flavor, while darker beers like stouts or porters will add richness.
– **Add Heat**: If you enjoy spicy foods, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the braising liquid for a kick of heat.
– **Slow Cooker Version**: If you prefer to use a slow cooker, you can follow the same steps but cook the pork on low for 6-8 hours instead of braising in the oven.
### Conclusion
Braised pork with beer and maple syrup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the richness of pork, the malty depth of beer, and the sweet earthiness of maple syrup. The slow-braising process creates tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth, while the beer and maple syrup lend a unique, balanced flavor profile. Whether you’re making this dish for a special occasion or just craving something comforting, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
