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