Cider braised pork cheeks –Experience the rich and savory delight of Cider Braised Pork Cheeks—a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also elevates your culinary repertoire. This recipe features an exquisite blend of cream, mustard, and caramelized leeks that perfectly complements the tender pork cheeks, making it an excellent choice for both a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. Let’s explore the recipe in detail.
Cider Braised Pork Cheeks with Cream, Mustard & Caramelized Leeks
Prepare to indulge in a dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your culinary desires.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork cheeks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Begin by seasoning the pork cheeks with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the pork cheeks in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the pork cheeks and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Return the pork cheeks to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
- Once the pork cheeks are tender, remove them from the pot. Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard to the cooking liquid, stirring well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- While the sauce thickens, caramelize the leeks. In a separate pan, add a little olive oil and cook the leeks over medium heat until they turn golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- To serve, place the pork cheeks on a plate, drizzle with the creamy sauce, and top with caramelized leeks. Garnish with fresh thyme.
This recipe captures the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist. The succulent pork cheeks, enveloped in the creamy mustard sauce and complemented by sweet caramelized leeks, will leave you and your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the process of crafting this delightful dish, and savor each delicious bite.
