Cooking neckbones in a crockpot (also known as a slow cooker) is a simple and flavorful process. Here's a basic recipe to guide you through the steps:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs of neckbones (pork or beef, whichever you prefer)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
Prepare the Neckbones: Rinse the neckbones under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the neckbones.
Sear the Neckbones (Optional Step): To add more flavor to the dish, you can sear the neckbones in a hot skillet with a tablespoon of vegetable oil until they are browned on all sides. This step is optional, but it can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Layer the Crockpot: Place the chopped onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the seared or raw neckbones on top.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano over the neckbones. Place the bay leaf in the crockpot for added flavor.
Pour in the Broth: Pour the chicken or beef broth over the neckbones, covering them as much as possible. If you prefer, you can use water instead of broth, but the broth will add more depth to the flavor.
Cooking Time: Set the crockpot on low heat and let the neckbones cook slowly for 6 to 8 hours. Cooking on low heat allows the meat to become tender and flavorful.
Check for Doneness: After the cooking time is up, check the neckbones for doneness. The meat should be tender and falling off the bones. If not, you can cook them for a bit longer.
Serve: Once the neckbones are fully cooked, remove them from the crockpot, and you can serve them with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and if you like it spicier, you can add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Crockpot cooking is all about convenience and slow-cooking to develop rich flavors, so you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious and tender meal ready by dinnertime. Enjoy your cooked neckbones!