This traditional boiled dinner is a beloved family favorite that brings the flavors of New England to your table. With a hearty combination of smoked pork shoulder, fresh vegetables, and aromatic broth, this comforting dish is sure to satisfy.

Originating from the region’s early settlers, New England Boiled Dinner has become a staple of traditional cuisine, cherished for its comforting qualities and ability to bring people together. It typically consists of succulent cuts of beef, such as corned beef or brisket, cooked alongside an assortment of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, turnips, and cabbage.

New England Boiled Dinner is a celebration of sustenance, paying homage to the region’s agricultural roots and the reliance on hearty ingredients. It reflects the resourcefulness of early settlers, who made the most of available ingredients to create a nourishing and flavorful meal. It is a reminder of the comforting meals shared among families and communities, creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of togetherness.

This dish is often enjoyed during special occasions, holidays, or as a comforting Sunday family meal. It invites you to gather around the table, share stories, and savor the wholesome flavors that emanate from the pot. The leftovers are equally delightful, allowing for creative reinventions like sandwiches, soups, or hash, ensuring that no morsel goes to waste.

The preparation of this dish is as straightforward as its ingredients. The meats and vegetables are simmered together in a pot, allowing their flavors to mingle and develop. As they gently cook, the broth takes on a rich, savory character, infusing each component with its delicious essence. The result is a one-pot feast that exudes warmth, simplicity, and a sense of home.

PREP: 10 MIN

COOK: 2 HOURS

MAKES: 8-10 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 smoked boneless pork shoulder butt roast (2 to 2½ pounds)
• 1 pound fresh carrots, sliced lengthwise and halved
• 8 medium red potatoes, peeled and halved
• 2 medium onions, cut into quarters
• 1 large head cabbage, cut into quarters
• 1 large turnip, peeled and cut into quarters
• 1 large rutabaga, peeled, halved, and sliced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the pork roast in a large Dutch oven and cover it with water.
   • Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and let it simmer for 1 hour.
2. Add the remaining ingredients to the Dutch oven.
   • Return the water to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and simmer for an additional 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Drain the cooked vegetables and pork roast.
4. Transfer the boiled dinner to a serving platter or individual plates.
5. Slice the pork roast and distribute it among the servings.
6. Serve the boiled dinner hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of New England.

SERVING SUGGESTION:

• Serve this boiled dinner as a main course for a cozy family meal. Pair it with crusty bread and a side of tangy mustard for a complete and wholesome dining experience.
• This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings. Adjust the quantities accordingly based on your serving needs.