When it comes to cooking pork, many of us tend to default to familiar cuts like chops or tenderloins. But there’s another cut that deserves some love: the humble pork shank. A pork shank is essentially a pig’s leg, and when cooked low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and hearty or want to add a touch of sophistication to your meal, pork shanks are an incredibly versatile ingredient. In this article, we’ll explore 18 succulent pork shank recipes that will take you on a culinary journey around the world. From classic braises and stews to bold and spicy flavors, there’s something for every palate and occasion.
Braised Pork Shank with Red Wine and Herbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and flavorful braise, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. Tender pork shank, slow-cooked in red wine and aromatic herbs, makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork shanks
– 2 cups red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear pork shanks until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove pork from pot and set aside.
5. Add onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
6. Add red wine to pot, scraping up any browned bits. Return pork shanks to pot.
7. Cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked Pork Shank with Root Vegetables
Slow-Cooked Pork Shank with Root Vegetables Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork shank paired with tender root vegetables, perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork shank (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
- 1 large celery stalk, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork shank with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the pot to the slow cooker or continue cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 1.5 hours (stovetop)
Crispy Roasted Pork Shank with Garlic and Rosemary
Crispy Roasted Pork Shank with Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your pork game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields a crispy, flavorful crust on the outside and tender meat on the inside. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork shanks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the pork shanks under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the pork shanks, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and massage it in to ensure even coverage.
6. Roast the pork shanks for 30-40 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German-Style Schweinshaxe with Beer Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of Bavaria with this classic German dish, featuring slow-cooked pork knuckle and a savory beer gravy. Perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork knuckle (schweinshaxe), skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (dark lager or porter)
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork knuckle with salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Sear the pork in a hot skillet on both sides until browned. Transfer to a roasting pan.
4. Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the roasting pan.
5. Pour beer into the roasting pan, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
6. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
8. Remove the foil and sprinkle flour over the pork and onions.
9. Return to the oven and cook for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken.
10. Serve hot with the rich beer gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Soy-Glazed Pork Shank
This sweet and savory recipe is a modern twist on traditional Asian-style pork dishes. The soy glaze caramelizes to perfection, coating the tender pork shank in a rich, umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season the pork shank with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork shank in a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan. Pour the soy glaze over the meat.
5. Roast for 1 hour, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pork is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pork Shank Osso Buco with Gremolata
This classic Italian dish is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. By slow-cooking pork shanks in liquid and aromatics, the meat becomes tender and flavorful, while the gremolata adds a bright, citrusy finish.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Gremolata (see below)
Gremolata:
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil, scraping up browned bits.
5. Return pork to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Serve with gremolata spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Pork Shank with Apple Cider Glaze
This recipe combines the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of slow-cooked pork shank with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider glaze. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup wood chips (such as hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup apple cider glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season pork shank with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Smoke pork shank for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, prepare apple cider glaze by mixing 1/2 cup apple cider with 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp Dijon mustard.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush pork shank with apple cider glaze.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Pork Shank Stew with White Beans and Kale
Pork Shank Stew with White Beans and Kale: A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the pork shanks on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the white beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Return the pork shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
9. Stir in the chopped kale and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until wilted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spanish-Style Pork Shank with Chorizo and Chickpeas
Savor the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty pork shank recipe, infused with spicy chorizo sausage and creamy chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown the pork shank on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, onion, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and cumin. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Add chorizo sausage and browned pork shank back to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Stir in chickpeas and continue braising for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours
Pork Shank Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta
Rich and flavorful, this hearty ragu is a perfect comfort food dish to warm up on a chilly day. With tender pork shanks and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a match made in heaven when paired with pappardelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown pork shanks, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and serve with ragu.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (includes cooking time in the oven)
Barbecue-Glazed Pork Shank with Coleslaw
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of pork shank with the bold flavors of a barbecue glaze, all topped off with a refreshing side of coleslaw. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Coleslaw ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place pork shanks in a large baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
5. Prepare coleslaw by combining shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve pork shank with coleslaw and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shank Pho with Star Anise and Ginger
This recipe is a twist on the classic Vietnamese noodle soup, featuring tender pork shank, aromatic star anise, and spicy ginger. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shank
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, sliced
– 6-8 whole star anise pods
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 pound pho noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the pork shank in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine beef broth, ginger, star anise, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add fish sauce (if using), sugar, rice vinegar, and water to the broth. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Cook pho noodles according to package instructions. Slice the roasted pork shank into thin strips.
6. Assemble the Pho by placing noodles in a bowl, adding sliced pork, and serving with garnishes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pork Shank Confit with Garlic and Thyme
Transform pork shanks into tender, flavorful bites with this easy confit recipe. A perfect dish for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Add thyme sprigs and browned pork shanks back into the pot. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Confit for 2-1/2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
7. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Pork Shank Adobo with Vinegar and Soy Sauce
A classic Filipino dish that’s flavorful and comforting, this Pork Shank Adobo is a staple in many households. With its tangy and savory sauce, it’s perfect for a hearty meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shanks, vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), garlic, onion, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Pork Shank Goulash with Paprika and Sour Cream
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian-inspired dish, Pork Shank Goulash is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender pork shanks, rich paprika broth, and tangy sour cream to create a satisfying and savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pork shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp ground paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shanks with salt, pepper, caraway seeds, and paprika.
3. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the pork shanks over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned pork shanks to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
7. Stir in sour cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pork Shank Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this pork shank pot pie is filled with tender meat and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the pork shank in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Add butter to the pot and sauté carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Add flour to the pot and stir to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
6. Return the pork shank to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roll out pie crust and place over the filling, crimping edges to seal.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Pork Shank Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Pork Shank Tacos with Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Tender pork shanks meet tangy pickled red onions in this flavorful taco recipe
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks, cut into large pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled Red Onions (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the pork pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Roast the pork in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 2-3 hours, or until tender and falling apart.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
7. Assemble tacos with roasted pork, pickled red onions, and desired toppings.
Pickled Red Onions Recipe
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (pork shanks) + 5-7 minutes (tortillas)
Pork Shank Cassoulet with Duck Confit and Sausage
This hearty, slow-cooked casserole combines the rich flavors of pork shank, duck confit, and sausage for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 1 duck confit (homemade or store-bought), shredded
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, crusty (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the pork shank on all sides over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside with pork shank.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add shredded duck confit, chicken broth, white wine, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork shank and sausage to the pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until pork is tender and falling off the bone.
8. Serve hot, topped with crusty baguette slices and your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavor of pork shank! From slow-cooked stews to crispy roasts, these 18 succulent recipes offer a world of possibilities for every occasion. Try braising it in red wine and herbs, or giving it a smoky twist with apple cider glaze. You can also go international with Asian-inspired soy-glazed pork shank, Spanish-style chorizo and chickpea stews, or Italian-inspired osso buco. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a show-stopping main course, these recipes have got you covered.
