Apple Mushroom Potluck Stew

Potluck stews have long anchored American community tables, one generous pot meant to feed a crowd. This version browns pork shoulder, then simmers it with mixed mushrooms and crisp apples in cider for sweet-savory depth.

Serves 6 · 20 min prep · 70 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 390 cal
• 28g protein
• 24g carbs
• 18g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lb boneless pork shoulder
• 1 lb mixed mushrooms (cremini and shiitake)
• 2 medium crisp apples
• 3 medium carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 large yellow onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1 tbsp leaves fresh thyme
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Instructions

1. 1Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. 2Brown the pork in batches without crowding, about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until deep golden crusts form. Transfer browned pieces to a plate and keep the fond in the pot.
3. 3Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot and cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and the edges start to soften.
4. 4Stir in the minced garlic, sage, and thyme and cook 1 minute until fragrant. Slice the mushrooms thickly and add them; sauté 4 to 5 minutes until they release liquid and begin to brown.
5. 5Core and dice the apples into sturdy chunks and add them to the pot along with the cider, scraping up every browned bit from the bottom.
6. 6Return the pork and any juices to the pot. Pour in the broth, add the bay leaf and Dijon, and bring the mixture to a lively simmer.
7. 7Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook 45 to 55 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fork-tender and the apples have softened into the broth while still offering little bites of sweetness.
8. 8Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf. Ladle into bowls or a wide potluck crock, scatter chives over the top, and set out with crusty bread for sharing.