Oven-baked pork shoulder

Oven-baked pork shank: A traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth

When it comes to dishes that blend tradition with authentic taste, oven-baked pork shank is at the top of many people's preferences. This recipe is a true feast, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. The pork shank is known for its tender texture and enticing flavors, and when combined with smoked hocks, the result is simply delicious. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this savory dish, full of history and tradition.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 smoked hocks
- 3 pieces of pork shank (approximately 1.5 kg in total)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 100 ml dry white wine
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

The history of pork shank is long, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. The dish stands out by combining slow cooking techniques with simple yet highly aromatic ingredients.

Step by step to a perfect shank

1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing the smoked hocks and pork shank in a large pot, covering them with water. Add 2-3 bay leaves and 1-2 sprigs of thyme to flavor the water. Boil over medium heat for about 1 hour. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear broth.

2. Cooling the meat: Once the meat is almost cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for 10 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the meat to rest and retain its juiciness.

3. Preparing the aromatic paste: In a bowl, crush the two heads of garlic, add 100 ml of white wine, 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. This paste will add an intense and delicious flavor to the meat.

4. Massaging the meat: Use this paste to massage each piece of meat. Make sure each piece is well coated with the aromatic mixture. This step will intensify the flavors and make the shank even tastier.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the meat in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Bake for 30 minutes. In the end, remove the foil and let it brown for another 10 minutes to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Serving: The pork shank is served hot, alongside steaming polenta and freshly grated horseradish. This combination will provide a contrast of textures and flavors, making your meal a true delight.

Useful tips:
- Make sure to use quality meat, preferably from a trusted supplier. Fresh meat will add more flavor to the dish.
- If you like a more intense garlic flavor, you can add more cloves to the paste.
- For an extra aroma, you can also add a pinch of hot pepper to the garlic paste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace the shank with beef or lamb, but the cooking time may vary.
- What other side dishes match? Besides polenta, you can serve the shank with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
- Is this a recipe suitable for special occasions? Absolutely! Pork shank is a dish that impresses with its appearance and taste, perfect for festive meals.

Nutritional benefits:
Pork shank is a good source of protein, and pork meat contains B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to a healthy immune system. Additionally, polenta adds complex carbohydrates, providing long-term energy.

Possible variations:
- You can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or onion during boiling to enrich the soup and add vitamins.
- Replace white wine with red wine for an even deeper flavor.

Personal note: When preparing oven-baked pork shank, I recommend adding a personal touch, such as a drop of truffle oil at the end, to bring a touch of refinement.

This oven-baked pork shank recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will transport you back in time to family dinners, full of smiles and shared stories. Enjoy your meal!