What Is A Pork Shank? The Key Facts

Are you a fan of pork?

Have you ever heard of a pork shank?

This cut of meat may not be as well-known as others, but it’s definitely worth trying.

The pork shank comes from the front or hind leg of the pig, depending on the region.

It’s a tough cut of meat due to the pig’s active lifestyle, but that also means it’s packed with flavor.

The bone in the shank contains marrow that melts into a braise when slow cooked, making it extra rich and delicious.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about pork shanks – from what they are, to how to cook them, and even some recipe ideas.

So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of this underrated cut of pork!

What Is A Pork Shank?

As mentioned earlier, a pork shank is a cut of meat taken from the front or hind leg of the pig. It’s a cross-section cut that consists of bone, lean meat, fat, and connective tissue.

The shank is often overlooked because it can be tough and chewy if not cooked properly. However, when cooked slowly, the fat in between the meat on the shank renders and makes it one of the most flavorful and tender pieces of pork you’ll ever taste.

It’s important to note that Iberian pork has a very high fat content, even compared to pastured pork. Many cuts of Iberico pork have a substantial amount of fat still attached, which is intentional. When cooked low and slow, the fat is the best part of Iberico pork. If you prefer more muscle meat for this cut, it’s recommended to look at pastured pork offerings.

Where Does The Pork Shank Come From?

The pork shank can come from either the front or hind leg of the pig. Traditionally, the word “ham” is reserved for a pig’s back thighs and leg region, and usually comes in three sections, one of which is the shank. Cuts from the upper region near the back are called “rump” or “butt,” while “center” cuts come from the middle portion.

Most butchers sell pork shank still attached to the leg bone. The shank is a cross-section cut that consists of bone, lean meat, fat, and connective tissue. Marrow is nestled in the bone, which melts into the broth as it cooks. The meat surrounding the bone requires a longer cooking time to tenderize because the pig uses these muscles every day to get around.

It’s important to note that the pork shank from Iberian pigs has a very high fat content, even compared to pastured pork. Many cuts of Iberico pork have a substantial amount of fat still attached, which is intentional. If you prefer more muscle meat for this cut, it’s recommended to look at pastured pork offerings.

Why Is The Pork Shank A Tough Cut Of Meat?

The pork shank is a tough cut of meat because it consists of a lot of connective tissue and muscle that gets a lot of exercise. This is due to the location of the cut, which is from the front or hind leg of the pig. The pigs develop muscles living in the woods, which in turn gives the meat incredible flavor that tastes next-level compared to layman’s pork. However, this also means that the meat is naturally quite tough and chewy if not cooked properly.

To make the pork shank tender and juicy, it needs to be cooked slowly using a low and slow cooking method. This breaks down the connective tissue and turns it into a heavenly tender bite. Additionally, searing the meat before braising helps to seal in the juices and renders the fat in between the meat on the shank, which coats and flavors the meat.

It’s important to note that while Iberian pork has a high fat content, it may not be suitable for those who prefer more muscle meat. In this case, it’s recommended to look for pastured pork offerings. Ultimately, with the right cooking techniques and preparation, the pork shank can become one of the most delicious and flavorful cuts of pork available.

How To Cook Pork Shank?

Cooking a pork shank requires patience and attention to detail. There are several methods to cook pork shank, but the most popular and effective way is to braise it. Braising involves cooking the meat slowly in a liquid over low heat until it becomes tender and falls off the bone.

To start, season the pork shank with salt and pepper. Then, heat some oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork shank on all sides until it’s golden brown. Once browned, remove the shank from the pot and set it aside.

Next, add some vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, and garlic to the pot and sauté them until they’re softened. Then add some wine or broth to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Return the pork shank to the pot and add enough liquid (wine, broth, or water) to cover it completely. Add some herbs like rosemary, bay leaves, and thyme for added flavor. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Let the pork shank simmer for at least 2-3 hours until it’s tender and falls off the bone easily. Turn the shank occasionally to ensure that it’s cooked evenly on all sides. Once done, remove the shank from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

You can also roast or smoke a pork shank for a different flavor profile. To roast it, season it with salt and pepper and roast it in an oven at 350°F for about 2-3 hours until tender. To smoke it, season it with your favorite dry rub and smoke it at 225°F for 4-5 hours until tender.

Recipe Ideas For Pork Shank.

Now that we know what a pork shank is and how to properly cook it, let’s explore some recipe ideas to make the most out of this delicious cut of meat.

1. Braised Pork Shank: The braising method is the most popular way to cook pork shank. It involves cooking the meat in a liquid for an extended period, which breaks down the connective tissue and makes the meat tender. Try the recipe above, which includes a flavorful braising liquid made with white wine, chicken stock, and aromatic vegetables.

2. Pork Shank Osso Buco: This classic Italian dish is made by braising pork shanks in a tomato-based sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. The dish is typically served with risotto or polenta and garnished with gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.

3. Crispy Pork Shank: If you prefer a crispy exterior on your pork shank, try seasoning it with your favorite spices and roasting it in the oven until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

4. Pork Shank Tacos: Shred the meat from a cooked pork shank and use it as a filling for tacos. Top it with fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal.

5. Pork Shank Stew: Make a hearty stew by combining cooked pork shank with root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Add some beans or lentils for extra protein and serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

No matter which recipe you choose, pork shank is a versatile and delicious cut of meat that can be enjoyed in many different ways.