When it comes to cooking pork, one of the most underrated yet delicious cuts is the pork shank. Often overlooked in favor of tenderloins or chops, the pork shank has a rich flavor and tender texture that’s just begging to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a hearty stew, a crispy roasted snack, or a flavorful braise, there’s a pork shank recipe out there for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouth-watering pork shank recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this underrated cut. From classic dishes like Braised Pork Shank with Red Wine and Herbs to more adventurous options like Spicy Mexican Pork Shank Tacos, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Stay tuned for the rest of the article!
Braised Pork Shank with Red Wine and Herbs
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. This slow-cooked pork shank is fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with the rich flavors of red wine and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pork shanks
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 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. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return pork shanks to the pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked German-Style Pork Shank
Enjoy tender and flavorful pork shanks with this classic German-inspired recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks, about 1 pound each
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup beer (optional)
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the pork shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sear the pork shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, apple cider vinegar, beer (if using), and caraway seeds to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Place the pork shanks in the slow cooker and pour the onion mixture over them.
7. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as braised red cabbage or boiled potatoes.
Crispy Roasted Pork Shank with Garlic and Rosemary
Crispy Roasted Pork Shank with Garlic and Rosemary: A hearty and aromatic dish perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks (about 1 pound each)
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shanks, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork shanks on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for even roasting.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asian-Inspired Soy-Glazed Pork Shank
Transform pork shank into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place pork shanks in a large baking dish or sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both pork shanks, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until meat is tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoky BBQ Pork Shank with Bourbon Sauce
Get ready for a slow-cooked, fall-apart tender pork shank smothered in a rich and tangy bourbon-infused barbecue sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shanks, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the pork shanks in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
5. Add bourbon whiskey, barbecue sauce, and chicken broth to the pot.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Tender Pork Shank Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food dish for a chilly evening. Braised pork shank and root vegetables simmer together to create a rich, flavorful broth that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shank until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and red wine (if using); bring to a boil.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and falling apart.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spanish-Style Pork Shank with Chorizo and Beans
This hearty dish combines tender pork shank, spicy chorizo, and creamy beans in a rich tomato-based sauce. A perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork shank (about 2 lbs)
– 4-6 slices of chorizo, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork shank with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shank until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add sliced chorizo to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
6. Stir in diced tomatoes, pinto beans, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork shank is tender.
8. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Honey-Glazed Pork Shank with Mustard Sauce
Sweet and tangy, this Honey-Glazed Pork Shank with Mustard Sauce recipe combines the tender fall-off-the-bone texture of pork shank with a rich and flavorful glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cumin.
3. Season pork shanks with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly onto the pork shanks.
6. Transfer the glazed pork shanks to a baking sheet and bake for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Mexican Pork Shank Tacos
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Mexico with the comforting warmth of slow-cooked pork. Crispy tacos filled with tender, spicy pork shank and topped with fresh cilantro and lime make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shank
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, cilantro, lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shank, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork in a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Add lime juice, garlic, and diced tomatoes.
5. Cover and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Shred the pork with two forks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Assemble tacos by spooning the spicy pork onto a tortilla and topping with cilantro and lime.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Herb-Crusted Pork Shank with Apple Cider Gravy
Elevate your pork shank game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring a blend of fresh herbs and tangy apple cider gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork shanks, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the pork shanks in a large baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes or until browned.
5. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve the roasted pork shanks with the warm apple cider gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Shank Osso Buco with Gremolata
Osso buco, a traditional Italian braised dish, typically features veal shanks. However, pork shank osso buco is a delicious and accessible alternative that yields tender, flavorful results.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Gremolata (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Brown the pork shanks in olive oil, then set aside.
4. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add white wine, beef broth, and tomato paste; stir.
6. Return pork shanks to the pot, cover, and braise for 2-1/2 hours or overnight.
7. Serve with Gremolata (see below).
Gremolata:
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine ingredients; adjust seasoning as needed.
Caribbean Jerk Pork Shank with Mango Salsa
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the islands with this mouthwatering Caribbean jerk pork shank paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks (about 1 pound each)
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango salsa ingredients:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shanks, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork shanks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir well.
7. Serve the pork shanks with the mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Pork Shank Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A hearty, comforting bowl of ramen featuring tender pork shank, springy noodles, and soft-boiled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shank
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 ounces ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shank, soy sauce, sake, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
3. Braise the pork for 2 hours, or until tender and falling apart.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Remove the pork from the braising liquid and slice into thin strips.
6. Soft-boil eggs by simmering them in water for 6-7 minutes, then shock in an ice bath to stop cooking.
7. Assemble the bowls by placing a portion of noodles in each, followed by sliced pork, soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
French-Style Pork Shank Confit
This recipe yields tender, fall-apart pork shanks infused with the rich flavors of French cooking. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork shanks (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season pork shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear pork shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add onion to pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
5. Add garlic, chicken broth, wine, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
6. Return pork shanks to the pot, cover with lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Confit for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Serve with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pork Shank and Lentil Cassoulet
This classic French-inspired dish is a perfect blend of tender pork shank, flavorful lentils, and crispy bread. A slow-cooked one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shank
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 slices of baguette, toasted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the pork shank in olive oil, then set aside.
3. Cook lentils, onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika in chicken broth until the lentils are tender.
4. Add tomato paste and browned pork shank to the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Top with toasted baguette slices and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Pork Shank Adobo with Coconut Milk
This Filipino-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of adobo with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork shanks, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until meat is tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Shank Pho with Star Anise and Ginger
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting Vietnamese-inspired soup. The combination of tender pork shank, fragrant star anise, and spicy ginger creates a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shank
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 star anise pods
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add pork shank and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add beef broth, star anise, ginger, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Remove pork from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot.
4. Return pork to the pot and add fish sauce (if using) and soy sauce. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pork Shank Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This hearty pot pie is a twist on the classic comfort food dish, featuring slow-cooked pork shanks and flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pork shanks
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown the pork shanks in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add beef broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the browned pork shanks.
6. Roll out the pie crust and place it over the filling, trimming excess dough from edges.
7. Brush the crust with beaten egg and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of pork shank with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From comforting stews and braises to crispy roasts and flavorful tacos, there’s something for every occasion. Try Braised Pork Shank with Red Wine and Herbs, Slow-Cooked German-Style Pork Shank, or Smoky BBQ Pork Shank with Bourbon Sauce. Or, go global with Asian-Insipred Soy-Glazed Pork Shank or Caribbean Jerk Pork Shank with Mango Salsa. With a variety of flavors and cooking methods, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
