Are you a fan of soul food? Have you ever wondered what type of meat is used in those delicious neck bone dishes?
Well, wonder no more! Neck bones can come from a variety of animals, including pork, turkey, and beef. While they may not have a lot of meat on them, they are packed with flavor and are a great value for your money.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between pork and beef neck bones and share some mouth-watering recipes to try at home. So, let’s get cooking!
Are Neck Bones Pork Or Beef?
As mentioned earlier, neck bones can come from both pork and beef. Pork neck bones are a popular choice for Southern-style cooking, while beef neck bones are often used in soul food dishes.
Beef neck bones have a small amount of meat on them, but when simmered, the meat becomes tender and juicy. They are just as flavorful as short ribs or oxtails but come at a fraction of the cost. On the other hand, pork neck bones have ample cartilage between the joints and plenty of meat surrounding the bone.
Both types of neck bones are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. From stews to braises, these cuts of meat add depth and richness to any recipe.
What Are Neck Bones?
Neck bones, also known as neckbones, are the meat and bone from the neck portion of an animal, typically pork, beef or turkey. They are a relatively inexpensive cut of meat that delivers big on taste. While neck bones don’t contain a lot of meat, they have ample cartilage between the joints and when simmered for a few hours, the meat becomes tender and juicy.
Neck bones are often used in Southern-style cooking and soul food dishes. They are a popular ingredient in collard greens, gumbos, and spaghetti sauce. Neck bones are also great for making stocks, broths, and soups. In fact, bone broth made from neck bones is highly nutritious and has many health benefits.
When selecting neck bones, it’s important to look for meatier pieces as some pieces may be just bone with little to no meat. Pork neck bones tend to have more meat than beef or turkey neck bones. Neck bones can be baked or boiled depending on the recipe, and they are typically seasoned with a dry rub or a light gravy.
Pork Neck Bones Vs. Beef Neck Bones: What’s The Difference?
When it comes to pork neck bones versus beef neck bones, there are a few key differences to note. Pork neck bones have more cartilage between the joints and more meat surrounding the bone than beef neck bones. This makes them a great choice for slow-cooking methods such as braising or stewing, as the cartilage breaks down and adds richness to the dish.
In contrast, beef neck bones have less meat around the bone and are often simmered to make the meat tender and juicy. They are a popular choice for soul food dishes and are just as flavorful as more expensive cuts of beef such as short ribs or oxtails.
Both pork and beef neck bones are relatively inexpensive and can be used in a variety of dishes. Pork neck bones are commonly used in Southern-style cooking, while beef neck bones are often found in soul food meals. Regardless of which type of neck bone you choose, both cuts of meat add depth and richness to any recipe they are used in.
How To Prepare Neck Bones For Cooking
Preparing neck bones for cooking is a simple process that requires a few basic steps. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare neck bones for cooking:
1. Clean the neck bones: Before seasoning the neck bones, it is important to clean them thoroughly. Rinse the neck bones under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the neck bones: Season the neck bones with your preferred blend of spices and herbs. You can use a mixture of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and sage, or any other seasoning that complements your recipe.
3. Coat the neck bones: Coat the neck bones with the seasoning mixture, making sure to cover both sides of the meat.
4. Sear the neck bones: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add oil or bacon fat. Sear the neck bones on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust, which takes about 5 or 6 minutes.
5. Add onions (optional): If desired, add chopped onions to the pot and sauté them until they are soft and translucent.
6. Deglaze the pot: Pour in broth or water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits that have accumulated at the bottom of the pot.
7. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the neck bones simmer until they are tender and juicy, which usually takes about 90 minutes.
By following these simple steps, you can prepare pork or beef neck bones for cooking and create flavorful dishes that your family and friends will love.
Delicious Neck Bone Recipes To Try At Home
If you’re looking to try your hand at cooking with neck bones, here are some delicious recipes to get you started:
1. Southern-Style Pork Neck Bones: This classic Southern recipe features tender pork necks covered in a light gravy. The sage-infused spice rub adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite packed with deliciousness. Serve with Southern Cornbread, Collard Greens, and Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
2. Beef Neck Bone Stew: This hearty stew is perfect for cold winter nights. Simmer beef neck bones with carrots, potatoes, and onions until the meat falls off the bone. The result is a rich and flavorful stew that will warm you up from the inside out.
3. Neck Bone Pho: This Vietnamese-inspired dish features beef neck bones simmered in a fragrant broth with ginger, star anise, and cinnamon. Serve with rice noodles, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs for a light yet satisfying meal.
4. Neck Bone Curry: This spicy curry is perfect for those who love bold flavors. Simmer pork neck bones in a coconut milk-based curry sauce with potatoes and carrots until everything is tender and flavorful. Serve over rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
No matter which recipe you choose, cooking with neck bones is a great way to add depth and richness to your meals. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between pork and beef neck bones, it ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of dish you are making. If you are looking for a cut of meat with ample meat and cartilage, pork neck bones are the way to go. They are perfect for making broths and sauces, and can even be used in spaghetti sauce.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more affordable cut of meat that is just as flavorful as short ribs or oxtails, beef neck bones are a great option. They may have less meat around the bone, but when simmered in liquid, the meat becomes tender and juicy.
Regardless of which type of neck bones you choose, both pork and beef neck bones are delicious and versatile cuts of meat that can add depth and richness to any dish. So why not give them a try and see for yourself?
