Pork shoulder is a very tender cut of meat with a special flavor, making it ideal for recipes like this one, where the sweetness comes from pineapple combined with a touch of apple cider vinegar and sugar. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare and takes little time to be ready to serve, making it perfect for surprising family or friends.
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Peel the pineapple and slice it into rings. Reserve half of the rings for decoration, and cut the rest into small cubes.
Blend the pineapple cubes into a puree and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, add the sugar and heat over low heat until it forms a light brown caramel. Stir with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Add the vinegar to the caramel and mix gently to dissolve everything, keeping the heat very low.
Add the blended pineapple puree and stir. Let it cook over low heat for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.
Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat a little olive oil in a skillet. Once hot, sear the pork shoulder on both sides and also on the two ends. Add the pineapple sauce to the skillet, cover, and let it cook over very low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the pork rest for 5 minutes.
In another skillet, melt the butter and cook the reserved pineapple rings for a couple of minutes on each side. Remove from heat.
Ensure the caramel does not burn by keeping the heat low and stirring constantly.
Let the pork shoulder rest after cooking to retain its juices and enhance flavor.
Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but fresh pineapple will provide better flavor and texture.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute apple cider vinegar with another type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use white vinegar or rice vinegar, but apple cider vinegar adds a unique flavor to the dish.
How do I know when the pork shoulder is fully cooked?
The pork shoulder should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the pineapple sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
