Neck bones are the unsung heroes of comfort food, bringing warmth and heartiness to your table. Imagine tender, slow-cooked neck bones simmered in a rich broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, and paired with vibrant vegetables. This delightful dish is perfect for cozy family gatherings or a quiet night in. With every bite, you’ll savor the deep, savory flavors that wrap around you like a warm hug. Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, and watch as everyone gathers around for seconds—because who can resist such deliciousness?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty, perfect for cozy nights in.
- Easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.
- Rich in flavor, thanks to aromatic herbs and spices.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides.
- Great for meal prep, making leftovers a delight!
neck bones
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients and get ready for a cozy cooking adventure!
- Rinse the neck bones under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the neck bones and sear until browned on all sides. This adds flavor!
- Chop one onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks. Toss them into the pot with the neck bones. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. This will create a rich, comforting base for your dish.
- Sprinkle in a teaspoon of garlic powder, a teaspoon of dried thyme, and a bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, until the neck bones are tender and flavorful.
- Once cooked, remove the neck bones and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat off the bones and return it to the pot.
- Serve your neck bones stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food with crusty bread or over rice!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Comfort Food |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 2 hours |
| Total Time: | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 people |
| Best Served: | With rice or mashed potatoes |
Ingredients
- Neck Bones – the star of the dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness.
- Vegetable Broth – a great substitute for meat broth, adding depth to the dish.
- Onions – for a sweet and savory base, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant aroma and a punch of flavor.
- Carrots – for natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- Celery – contributes a fresh crunch and balances the flavors.
- Bay Leaves – infuse the dish with a subtle herbal note.
- Thyme – a classic herb that complements the richness of the neck bones.
- Black Pepper – for a hint of spice and warmth.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors, adjust to taste.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Gather your ingredients and get ready for a cozy cooking adventure!
Step 1: Prepare the Neck Bones
Rinse the neck bones under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Neck Bones
In a large pot, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the neck bones and sear until browned on all sides. This adds flavor!
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Chop one onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks. Toss them into the pot with the neck bones. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. This will create a rich, comforting base for your dish.
Step 5: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in a teaspoon of garlic powder, a teaspoon of dried thyme, and a bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, until the neck bones are tender and flavorful.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once cooked, remove the neck bones and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat off the bones and return it to the pot.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your neck bones stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food with crusty bread or over rice!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Choose fresh neck bones for the best flavor and tenderness.
•Simmer slowly to allow the meat to become tender and absorb all the spices.
•Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy depth without using wine.
•Incorporate root vegetables like carrots and potatoes for added nutrition and heartiness.
•Don’t rush the cooking time; let the dish develop its rich flavors over several hours.
How to Serve
- Serve neck bones over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Pair with steamed green beans or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Offer a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a twist, serve in tacos with avocado and salsa for a fun fusion dish.
- Garnish with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing zing.
- Enjoy with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your neck bones dish later without losing flavor or texture.
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
• Portion the dish into individual servings for easy thawing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
• Ensure the dish is heated through to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
What are neck bones and how do they differ from other cuts of meat?
Neck bones are flavorful cuts from the neck area of the animal, typically beef or lamb. They have a rich taste and are perfect for slow cooking, making them ideal for soups and stews. Unlike other cuts, they contain more connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking, adding a delicious depth to your dish.
Can I use neck bones in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Neck bones are perfect for slow cooking. Just season them well, add your favorite vegetables and broth, and let the slow cooker do the work. This method enhances the flavors and makes the meat tender and juicy.
What can I substitute for neck bones if I can’t find them?
If neck bones are unavailable, you can use oxtails or beef shanks as a substitute. Both options provide a similar rich flavor and texture, making them great alternatives for your comfort food recipes.
How long should I cook neck bones for the best results?
For the best results, cook neck bones for at least 2 to 3 hours on low heat. This slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. If using a pressure cooker, you can reduce the time to about 45 minutes for equally delicious results.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—neck bones, the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly! This simple recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories around the table. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the rich flavors, and savor every bite. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
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