How To Cook Neck Bones In A Crock Pot: A Finger-Licking Delight
Are you in the mood for a delicious and mouthwatering meal? Look no further than neck bones cooked in a crock pot! This cooking method ensures tender, juicy meat that falls right off the bone. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delightful dining experience.
Why Choose Neck Bones?
Neck bones might not be the first cut of meat that comes to mind when planning a meal, but they are surprisingly versatile and packed with flavor. These humble bones, derived from the neck of various animals, are rich in gelatin and collagen, giving your dishes a luscious and satisfying texture. When slow-cooked in a crock pot, neck bones release their natural juices and infuse your recipe with incredible depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of neck bones
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of your favorite seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
- Optional: vegetables like carrots and celery
The Step-by-Step Method:
- Start by seasoning your neck bones with your chosen seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper. This step will help enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the neck bones on all sides. This adds a lovely caramelization and depth of flavor to the meat.
- Once the neck bones are nicely browned, transfer them to the crock pot.
- Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and any additional vegetables, if desired, to the crock pot.
- Pour the broth over the neck bones and vegetables, ensuring they are submerged.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. The slow and gentle cooking process will result in tender, succulent neck bones.
- After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the neck bones from the crock pot.
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can brush the neck bones with BBQ sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes until they develop a beautiful glaze.
Serving Suggestions:
Now that your neck bones are perfectly cooked, it’s time to enjoy them! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Serve the neck bones over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
- Add a side of sautéed greens, such as collard greens or kale, for a healthy and vibrant touch.
- Drizzle the neck bones with the delicious cooking juices from the crock pot for added moisture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to bring a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
Get ready to savor every tender and succulent bite of these slow-cooked neck bones. The crock pot method unlocks the full potential of this often-overlooked cut, resulting in a meal that will have your taste buds singing. So, grab your crock pot and let the magic unfold as you create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying!
Happy cooking!