Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Pork Neck Bones Mexican recipe is a delicious and budget-friendly option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend feast. Tender pork neck bones simmered in a rich, spicy broth, bursting with the vibrant tastes of Mexico – it's a flavor explosion you won't want to miss! This recipe offers a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork neck bones
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Sear the Bones: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork neck bones and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the final dish. Remove the bones from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Broth: Return the pork neck bones to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! For an even richer flavor, consider simmering it for 3-4 hours.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the pork is tender, remove the bones from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and stir to combine with the flavorful broth. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with warm tortillas, rice, and lime wedges.
Tips for the Best Pork Neck Bones:
- Bone Selection: Choose pork neck bones with good meaty portions attached for maximum flavor and enjoyment.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. If you love heat, feel free to add more!
- Slow and Low: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving incredibly tender pork. Don't rush the simmering process!
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. The flavor actually improves when it's made ahead and reheated.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance your dish by adding other vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers during the simmering process.
- Different Spices: Experiment with different spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or ancho chili powder.
- Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of lime juice at the end for extra brightness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This easy Mexican pork neck bones recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes, ideal for quick dinner ideas. With minimal effort, you can create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend gatherings. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking and a recipe you'll want to add to your collection of best recipes.