Grilled Pork Shank with BBQ Sauce

This recipe presents a delightful and flavorful way to prepare a pork shank using a grilling method. The pork shank is cooked slowly to ensure tenderness and then finished on the grill, brushed with barbecue sauce for a smoky and tangy flavor. The combination of aromatic spices and BBQ sauce makes this dish a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. It is an ideal choice for a hearty meal, which can be paired with a variety of sides for a complete dining experience. The key to a successful dish is in the preparation, which involves thorough cleaning and seasoning of the pork. Grilling the shank adds a charred, crispy exterior while maintaining the juicy and tender inside. This dish is both comforting and impressive, making it suitable for dinner parties or family gatherings. For a winter delight or a summer barbecue, this dish is versatile and sure to please the crowd. Follow these detailed steps to recreate this dish in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pork shank (approximately 700 g)
  • 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 3-4 bay leaves
  • 3-4 allspice berries
  • Salt to taste

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 150 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Prepare the Pork Shank: Rinse the pork shank thoroughly under cold water. If there are any bristles left on the skin, remove them using your preferred method, such as a flame to singe them off.

  2. Cook the Shank: Place the cleaned shank in a large pot and cover it with water. Add bay leaves, allspice berries, and salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours. This will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

  3. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to 180 degrees Celsius. This ensures even cooking and a good sear on the meat.

  4. Apply the BBQ Sauce: Once the shank is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot. Pat it dry with paper towels. Brush the shank generously with BBQ sauce, covering all sides.

  5. Grill the Shank: Place the shank on the grill grates, close the grill lid, and cook for 10 minutes. This initial cooking will start forming a caramelized crust.

  6. Reapply the Sauce and Continue Grilling: Open the grill lid, brush the shank again with BBQ sauce. Close the lid and grill for another 20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

  7. Check and Finish Cooking: If the shank appears too pale or not fully caramelized, brush it with more BBQ sauce and grill for an additional 10 minutes, making sure not to overcook.

  8. Serve: Remove from the grill and allow it to rest briefly before slicing. Best served with boiled potatoes and braised cabbage for a traditional touch.

Tips

  • Substitutions: If you don't have BBQ sauce on hand, create your own using ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
  • Grilling Technique: Keep the grill lid closed to maintain a steady temperature.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Add minced garlic in the water for additional aroma during the simmering stage.

Nutritions

  • Calories: 850 per serving
  • Protein: 60g
  • Fats: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Herbs Alternative: Use thyme and rosemary instead of bay leaves for a different aroma.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a more diverse meal.

Best Places

  • BBQ House - Renowned for its authentic BBQ flavors and charming atmosphere. Location: 123 Grill St, Austin, Texas, USA.
  • The Pork Pit - Offers a wide selection of grilled meats with excellent customer service. Location: 456 Spice Rd, Kingston, Jamaica.
  • Grill Haven - Known for its outdoor dining experience and flavorful cuisine. Location: 789 Flame Lane, Sydney, Australia.
  • Smokey's Delight - Provides a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a variety of BBQ dishes. Location: 321 Pitstop Ave, London, UK.
  • The Shank Corner - Specializes in pork dishes with an innovative twist. Location: 987 Roast Street, Munich, Germany.
  • BBQ Bistro - Combines traditional and modern BBQ techniques. Location: 654 BBQ Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
  • Fire and Smoke - Offers a rustic dining experience with expertly grilled meat options. Location: 111 Sizzle St, Cape Town, South Africa.
  • Charcoal House - Famous for its open flame grilling and artisanal sauces. Location: 222 Ember Rd, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
  • Grill Masters Café - A local favorite for its extensive grilled menu. Location: 333 Grillway, Auckland, New Zealand.
  • Savory Shacks - Offers a hearty dining experience with a focus on grilled and barbecued meats. Location: 444 Char Rd, Paris, France.