### Cider Braised Pork Neck with White Bean and Mushroom Cassoulet: A Delicious Recipe
#### Introduction
This hearty and comforting recipe combines the rich flavors of cider braising with pork neck and a creamy white bean and mushroom cassoulet. Perfect for cold winter nights, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
#### Ingredients
- 1 kg (2 lbs) pork neck
- 500 ml (17 oz) dry cider
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 800 g (1.75 lbs) white beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 400 g (14 oz) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
#### Step-by-Step Guide
##### Preparation of Pork Neck
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. **Braise the Pork Neck**:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
- Add the pork neck, bay leaf, and enough cider to cover the meat by about an inch.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
##### Cassoulet Preparation
1. **Sauté Vegetables**:
- In another pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
2. **Combine Ingredients**:
- Drain the pork neck from the braising liquid and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the shredded pork to the pot with vegetables and mix well.
- Add the soaked white beans, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through.
3. **Final Touches**:
- Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
#### Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish alongside a side of crusty bread or roasted root vegetables. For an extra special treat, try adding a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
#### Tips and Variations
- **Cider Selection**: Opt for a dry cider to keep the braising liquid from becoming too sweet.
- **Substitutions**: If you don’t have white beans, consider using cannellini or navy beans instead. For a vegetarian option, omit the pork neck and increase the amount of mushrooms.
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Enjoy crafting this delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for sharing with family or friends!