Enjoy the rich and soulful flavors of the Deep South with our Southern Neck Bones recipe! This hearty and comforting dish consists of tender and succulent pork neck bones simmered to perfection in a savory and aromatic broth infused with the earthy sweetness of vegetables and the warmth of traditional Southern spices. Whether served as a cozy family meal or at a festive gathering, Southern Neck Bones will warm your heart and soul with each delicious bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork neck bones
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Neck Bones:
- Rinse the pork neck bones under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Neck Bones:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the neck bones to the pot and sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the neck bones from the pot and set aside.
- Saute the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, chopped carrots, and diced bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes:
- Return the seared neck bones to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken or beef broth to the pot. Stir in the bay leaves, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Simmer Until Tender:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the neck bones simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bones, stirring occasionally.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the neck bones are tender, remove them from the pot and transfer them to a serving platter. Discard the bay leaves.
- Ladle the vegetables and broth over the neck bones. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Southern Neck Bones hot as a hearty and comforting main dish, accompanied by your favorite Southern sides such as collard greens, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
With our Southern Neck Bones recipe, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of the Deep South while also celebrating the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. This dish, which features tender pork neck bones simmered to perfection in a savory broth infused with aromatic vegetables and traditional spices, is sure to evoke feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and pure culinary bliss. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed on a quiet evening at home, Southern Neck Bones will leave you feeling nourished, satisfied, and deeply satisfied.