I'm doing braised pork shoulder (2 inch chunks). But it is 15 pounds worth. I have two cast iron dutch ovens. do I need to just do these in multiple 2+ hour batches? Or can I put it all in one big aluminum soup pot?

daddysurprise
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5 Comments

ChefOno April 12, 2013

Tamarind is decidedly acidic. Although the dilution ratio is an important factor, I'd avoid reactive aluminum. As Abbie points out, anodized cookware doesn't present a problem. On the other hand, cast iron is also reactive.

 
daddysurprise April 12, 2013
Thank you both. Looks like I am using enamel and my Calphalon stock pot. Very helpful. Thanks
 
ChefOno April 12, 2013

Brown in batches however you see fit, just don't crowd the pan(s) during that step. That rule doesn't apply to the braise itself so cram things in as necessary. I wouldn't worry about aluminum reactivity unless your braising liquid is acidic. If you're braising in an oven, bring everything up to temperature (a bare simmer) over a burner beforehand to minimize any timing issues.

 
aargersi April 12, 2013
I don't think I would use the aluminum pot unless it's non-reactive, like Calphalon. Can you fit both dutch oven in your oven at once? I guess you can't cram all 15 lbs into one pot - if you CAN, I would brown it in batches, fill the pot, and increase the cook time. Is this a low and slow / juicy gravy recipe or are you looking for crispy as in Carnitas??
 
daddysurprise April 12, 2013
This is low and slow. My braising liquid will be chicken broth and tamarind paste with garlic and onions. Is that too acidic?
 
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