Milk-Braised Pork Shoulder With Lemon and Sage

A comforting, slow-cooked pork roast perfect for weekend dinners or holiday gatherings.

If you're searching for a flavorful way to enjoy pork shoulder, this Milk-Braised Pork With Lemon and Sage recipe brings a rustic Italian classic to your table. The tender pork slowly simmers in a creamy milk sauce infused with fresh sage and bright lemon peel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture and unforgettable taste.

This dish serves 6 to 8 people and takes about 4 hours in total to prepare and cook.

Ingredients

You will need 2 tablespoons of olive oil, one 2 to 2½-pound boneless pork shoulder (also called Boston butt), 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. For aromatics, prepare 1 bunch of fresh sage and 1 lemon peeled into wide strips. To create the creamy braise, you’ll need 1½ cups of whole milk. Finally, grab 1 large bunch of Swiss chard with the ribs removed and leaves torn into large pieces.

Preparation

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2
Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. Place it in the pot and cook, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned on all sides, about 12 to 15 minutes. Pour off any excess fat.

Step 3
Add the sage, lemon peel, and whole milk. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Roast the pork for 3½ to 4 hours, until it becomes extremely tender.

Step 4
Once cooked, transfer the pork to a serving platter. Discard the lemon peel from the pot. Add the Swiss chard to the remaining sauce and stir gently until wilted. Using tongs, arrange the greens beside the pork and drizzle everything with the flavorful milk sauce.

Final Thoughts

This milk-braised pork is incredibly tender and rich, with herbaceous and citrus notes that elevate the dish. It’s rustic yet elegant, making it perfect for both cozy weeknight meals and special occasions.

Ready to cook it at home?
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