APPLE CIDER BRAISED PORK SHOULDER

This Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is a comforting, one-pot dinner that’s ideal for cozy fall evenings. Succulent pork is slow-cooked to perfection in a rich blend of fresh apple cider, onions, apples, and aromatic herbs. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth dish bursting with fall flavors.

INGREDIENTS

  • 4–5 lb pork shoulder or Boston butt roast*
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil
  • 2 cups fresh apple cider* (not apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cups chicken stock or broth
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dehydrated minced onion
  • 1 head of garlic, top sliced off (opposite the root end)
  • 3 rosemary sprigs
  • 4 thyme sprigs
  • 1 red onion, cut into thick slices
  • 2 firm, slightly tart apples*, peeled and cut into wedges
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F.
  • Trim any large fat caps from the pork if needed. Cut the pork into four large pieces, or leave it whole if bone-in.
  • Pat the pork pieces dry with a paper towel, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  • In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork in a single layer for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply browned. Work in batches if necessary.
  • While the pork sears, whisk together the apple cider, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, and dehydrated minced onion in a bowl. Tie the rosemary and thyme into a small bundle with kitchen twine.
  • Once the pork is browned, pour the cider mixture into the Dutch oven. Add the herb bundle and garlic head. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven.
  • Braise for about 3 hours, flipping the pork halfway through. For boneless pork, start checking around 2 ½ hours.
  • When the pork is nearly fork-tender, remove from the oven and arrange the onion slices and apple wedges around the pork. Cover and return to the oven for another 30–45 minutes, until the pork is very tender.
  • Let the pork rest in the braising liquid for 30 minutes before serving. Squeeze the softened garlic cloves into the broth or over the pork for added flavor. Adjust the seasoning of the braising liquid with salt and pepper, then spoon it over the pork, apples, and onions to serve.

NOTES

*For guidance on using boneless or bone-in pork, see the blog post.
*If your pork is especially fatty, trim some excess before searing.
*Best apple varieties for this recipe are firm and slightly tart, such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Gala.
*Important: Use apple cider, not apple cider vinegar, as vinegar will alter the flavor entirely.

DAILY FACIAL SKIN CARE TIPS FOR MEN

Why Men Should Care About Their Skin: A Simple Facial Care Routine for Healthy Skin

While women often prioritize skincare routines for glowing, healthy skin, many men overlook their own facial care. But why is that? Men’s skin deserves the same attention, as it’s just as sensitive and exposed to dirt, pollution, and harsh elements. Taking care of your skin is just as important as keeping your body fit and healthy. A good skincare routine isn’t complicated—it’s about consistency. By following these five easy steps daily, men can achieve clear, healthy skin that glows with confidence. No matter your skin type—whether dry, oily, or sensitive—these simple steps will work for you.

Cleaning, Toning and Moisturizing Your Skin

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Start by splashing lukewarm water on your face and applying a men’s face wash. Avoid using regular soap, as it can contain harsh chemicals that may damage your skin.

Gently massage the face wash onto your skin in circular motions to cleanse away dirt and impurities. Afterward, rinse with cool water to help tighten pores and prevent dirt and oil from accumulating.

The next step is to use a toner that suits your skin type. Opt for a natural, organic toner and steer clear of anything with harsh chemicals. Toner helps restore balance to your skin after cleansing and preps it for the next step in your routine.

Toners are important because they help lower the skin’s pH level, giving it a hydration boost and removing dead skin cells for a fresh, healthy appearance.

Moisturizing is a crucial step that you can’t skip. Apply a dime-sized amount of men’s face moisturizer to your entire face. Proper hydration helps prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and excess oil production.

Again, prioritize moisturizers made with natural ingredients and essential oils. Avoid products with synthetic chemicals and instead focus on organic, skin-friendly options to nourish your skin effectively.

Sunscreen, always apply sunscreens!

The final step in your skincare routine is applying sunscreen before stepping outside. This is a crucial, non-negotiable part of your daily facial care.

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. This level of protection is ideal to shield your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging, sunburn, and long-term damage. Sunscreen helps prevent tanning and protects your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, keeping your skin healthy and glowing. Never skip this step, no matter the weather!

Avoid Eye Wrinkles and Dark Circles

Did you know the area around your eyes is the first part of your face to show signs of aging? The skin around the eyes is extremely delicate and lacks sweat and oil glands, which makes it prone to dehydration and wrinkles. To keep your eye area youthful and smooth, it’s essential to incorporate a men’s eye cream into your daily routine.

After moisturizing your face, apply a thin layer of eye cream to the under-eye area and around the eye socket. Gently tap it in to ensure it absorbs well. This will help reduce puffiness and dark circles, giving your eyes a refreshed look.

For nighttime care, applying eye cream after your anti-aging cream will further hydrate the skin around your eyes, helping to combat wrinkles and signs of aging. You definitely don’t want to look older than you are, right? So, make these simple steps part of your daily skincare routine to keep your skin looking its best for years to come!

Take Care of Your Lips- Use Lip Balms

Lip balms aren’t just for women—men need to take care of their lips too! After all, who doesn’t want soft, smooth lips? Everyone does, right? So don’t hesitate to use a lip balm or even a bit of lip gloss. Dry, cracked lips can be uncomfortable and look unappealing, so keep them hydrated and healthy by making lip care part of your routine.

When you’re taking care of your face, don’t forget to show your lips some love too. A little lip balm goes a long way in preventing dryness and keeping your lips soft and subtle. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference!

Clean, Trim or Shave Your Beard

Growing a beard might be easy, but maintaining it is a whole different story! Whether you’re rocking a stubble or a full Bandholz, your beard needs proper care. Use the right beard products, like beard shampoo and beard wax, to keep it clean, soft, and styled.

Be sure to wash, trim, and shave your beard regularly to keep it looking its best. Consistency is key—don’t neglect your beard just because it’s growing in. If you prefer a clean shave, make sure to maintain that as well with the right shaving products.

A man’s beard can be one of his most attractive features, so it’s important to pay attention to it. Don’t just grow it—maintain it well and give it the care it deserves to look sharp and on point!

As you can see, these facial skincare tips are simple yet essential! A little care and dedication can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of your skin. Skincare isn’t just for women—men’s skin deserves the same attention. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your skin healthy, clear, and free from damage.

Don’t shy away from investing in quality skincare products. Take the time to understand your skin type and use products that work best for you. By committing to these 5 simple and easy steps in your daily skincare routine, you’ll notice your skin improving in no time.

Remember, your skin is important—treat it well, and you’ll love the results!

conclusion

In conclusion, skincare is not just a routine, but a commitment to your overall well-being. Men, just like women, need to take care of their skin to keep it healthy, youthful, and damage-free. By following a simple yet effective skincare routine—cleansing, toning, moisturizing, protecting with sunscreen, and giving attention to areas like your eyes and lips—you can maintain clear, smooth skin with minimal effort. Remember, consistency is key. Don’t hesitate to invest in the right products for your skin type, and always make sure to maintain your beard if you have one. By dedicating a few minutes each day, you’ll ensure your skin stays looking great and feeling healthy for years to come. Take care of your skin; it’s worth it!