Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pork shoulder slow-braised in a rich, smoky tomato sauce infused with garlic and smoked paprika. This mediterranean-inspired pork ready in about 195 minutes blends cut into 2-inch chunks pork shoulder, olive oil, medium, diced yellow onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 180 min Serves 6 Mediterranean cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 lbs pork shoulder chunks and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply browned; transfer pork to a plate.
  2. Step 2: Reduce heat to medium and add 1 medium diced yellow onion with 5 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 2 tsp smoked paprika and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Return pork to the pot.
  5. Step 5: Add 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 2 sprigs fresh thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
  6. Step 6: Cook gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until pork is fork-tender and sauce thickens, coating the meat beautifully.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 195 minutes (15 min prep + 180 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Slow-Braised Pork Shoulder with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Mediterranean pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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