How to Make Coca-Cola Braised Pork Shoulder | Kroger Recipes | Kroger

Coca-Cola

🥗Healthier: diet soda

💰Cheaper: root beer

Diet soda reduces sugar while maintaining carbonation.

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork butt

Chicken thighs are leaner and often cheaper.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index.

apple cider vinegar

🥗Healthier: white vinegar

💰Cheaper: lemon juice

Lemon juice adds acidity at a lower cost.

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

Season the pork shoulder with salt and black pepper.

Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Remove the pork shoulder and set aside.

In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Coca-Cola.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Return the pork shoulder to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.

Add bay leaves, thyme, and red pepper flakes for flavor.

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low; braise for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

Remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding.

Strain the braising liquid and reduce it over medium heat until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.

Serve the shredded pork with the reduced sauce drizzled on top.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens