This Pork Shank Recipe Is So TENDER and JUICY It Will Blow Your Mind!

pork shank

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs are leaner, while pork shoulder is more affordable and still flavorful.

beer

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic beer

💰Cheaper: apple cider

Non-alcoholic beer maintains flavor without alcohol; apple cider adds sweetness.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is healthier and richer in flavor; water with seasoning is cost-effective.

honey

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener; brown sugar is less expensive.

Prepare the chipotle mix. In the bowl of a food processor, blend the chipotle, honey and garlic. Add 3-4 tablespoons of water to form a paste. Set the paste aside.

Prepare the pork shank. Evenly rub the pork shank with salt and pepper.

Heat a Dutch oven over high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the vegetable oil and sear the pork shank on all sides.

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the light beer and scrape with a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot.

Pour the chipotle mix on top of the shank.

Add the remaining 1½ cups of water to the pot, cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 1 hour. Check the pot after 30 minutes and add an additional ½ cup of water, if needed.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Uncover the Dutch oven and baste the pork shank with the cooking liquid. Transfer the uncovered pot to the oven. Let it roast for 15 minutes or until nicely browned. Remove from the oven and let the pork shank rest for 10 more minutes before serving.

Spoon the juices on top and enjoy!

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: