Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This smoked pork neck bones recipe is your ticket to tender, juicy perfection. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, these smoky bones are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Forget takeout – homemade deliciousness is just around the corner! This recipe delivers on flavor and ease, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork neck bones
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Bones
Pat the pork neck bones dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor dramatically.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This aromatic base will infuse incredible flavor into your dish.
Step 3: Braising the Bones
Add the seasoned pork neck bones to the pot and brown them on all sides. This browning process adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color. Once browned, pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily falls off the bone. Longer braising times result in even more tender meat.
Step 4: Serving Your Masterpiece
Once the pork neck bones are cooked through, remove them from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. You can strain the braising liquid for a cleaner sauce or serve it directly over the shredded pork. Serve the shredded pork neck bones over rice, mashed potatoes, polenta, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor: Consider smoking the pork neck bones on a smoker before braising them. Aim for about 1 hour at 225°F.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chipotle powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Throw in some diced carrots, celery, or potatoes during the braising process for a heartier meal.
- Make it a slow cooker meal: Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This smoked pork neck bones recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal, offering versatility and amazing taste. Try it out and let us know what you think! Happy cooking!