Smoked pork shoulder, baked

Smoked Pork Shank in the Oven – a simple yet flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

When it comes to dishes that combine tradition with intense flavors, smoked pork shank in the oven tops the list. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for a family meal or for evenings when you want to impress your guests. Slow cooking ensures that every slice of meat is tender and full of flavor, and the combination of ingredients is truly magical.

Ingredients
- 1 boneless, semi-smoked pork shank (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 150 ml sunflower or olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 2 bay leaves

The story behind the recipe
Pork shank is a classic recipe loved by many cultures. Its origins are closely tied to traditional oven cooking, where meat was prepared slowly to preserve its juices and flavors. Smoking adds an extra layer of flavor, giving the meat a distinct note that perfectly complements the spices.

Step by step: preparation method

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the pork shank is boneless and semi-smoked. This choice of meat is important, as the smoking will add a deep flavor.

2. Preparing the dish
In a tall, heat-resistant dish, pour the oil. Choose a dish that can withstand high temperatures and has a well-sealed lid to retain moisture.

3. Placing the shank
Place the shank in the dish, making sure to position it at the bottom to absorb all the flavors from the oil.

4. Preparing the marinade
In a bowl, mix the lemon juice with the soy sauce, rosemary, salt, pepper, garlic powder, coriander seeds, and bay leaves. This mixture will become the marinade that flavors the dish.

5. Pouring the marinade
Pour the marinade over the shank, ensuring it is well covered. This marinade will penetrate the meat, giving it a rich and delicious flavor.

6. Covering the dish
Place a baking sheet over the dish, then put the lid on. This is an essential technique, as the steam generated inside will help tenderize the meat while the oil gives it a crispy crust on the outside.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Halfway through, turn the shank to ensure it cooks evenly.

8. Checking the dish
After 90 minutes, check if the shank is tender using a fork. If it goes in easily, it’s ready!

Serving
Smoked pork shank is versatile and can be served in multiple ways. You can opt for a portion alongside creamy polenta, pickles, or mashed potatoes. Another delicious option is to slice it thinly and serve it on a slice of fresh bread with salty cheese.

Useful tips
- For extra flavor, you can add some vegetables to the dish, such as carrots or onions, which will contribute to a delicious sauce.
- If you like spices, feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or basil.
- For a healthier option, you can reduce the amount of oil, but make sure the dish is well covered to prevent the meat from drying out.

Nutritional values
This smoked pork shank recipe provides an excellent source of protein due to the pork. It also contains healthy fats from the oil used. The lemon adds a dose of vitamin C, while the spices bring not only flavor but also antioxidant benefits.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace the pork shank with chicken or turkey breast, but the cooking time will be different.
- How can I store leftovers? The shank stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a pan.
- What side dishes go best? Polenta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are all ideal side dishes to complement the shank.

This smoked pork shank recipe is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience full of tradition and flavor. Try it and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: a boneless pork shoulder, semi-smoked 150 ml oil juice of one lemon 2 tablespoons soy sauce rosemary salt pepper garlic powder coriander seeds bay leaves

 Tags:  oven-baked lamb unisol