Home/Meats/Cured Pork Shank
Back to Home
Cured Pork Shank
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Cured Pork Shank

Sus scrofa domesticus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Cured pork shank is a flavorful cut of meat that is often used in various culinary dishes. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a popular choice for hearty meals.

Also known as:
Pork HockHam Hock
Scientific NameSus scrofa domesticus
Region of OriginVarious regions, commonly found in Europe and North America.

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total43.0g
Protein
25g(58%)
Fats
18g(42%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.7 mg (58%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.8 mg (16%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B121.5 mcg (62%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron1.5 mg (8%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 10 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content may pose risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by slow cooking, braising, or roasting to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cured pork shank that is firm to the touch and has a rich color without excessive moisture.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and consume within a few days; freezing is recommended for longer storage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, supports muscle health, contains essential vitamins.
Main Applications
Used in soups and stews for flavor enhancement.
Commonly used in traditional dishes like sauerkraut and pork knuckle.
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

How to Consume
Cooked, Smoked, Braised
Did you know?

"Cured pork shank has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often used in festive meals."

Myths vs Realities

MythCured meats are always unhealthy.
RealityWhile cured meats can be high in sodium, they can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
MythCured pork shank is only for special occasions.
RealityCured pork shank can be enjoyed in everyday meals and is versatile in various recipes.
MythAll cured meats are the same.
RealityDifferent curing methods and spices can significantly alter the flavor and health profile of cured meats.

Healthy Recipes

Cured Pork Shank with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender cured pork shank paired with a refreshing quinoa salad, packed with nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
  2. 2. While quinoa cooks, roast the cured pork shank in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours until tender.
  3. 3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and serve alongside the sliced pork shank.

Cured Pork Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These flavorful tacos feature shredded cured pork shank topped with a zesty avocado salsa, perfect for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 2 lbs)
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 2 avocados, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Slow-cook the cured pork shank in a crockpot on low for 6-8 hours until tender and easily shredded.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine diced avocados, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Warm the corn tortillas, fill them with shredded pork, and top with avocado salsa before serving.

Cured Pork Shank and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A vibrant stir-fry featuring cured pork shank and a medley of colorful vegetables, offering a quick and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, diced)
  • 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add diced cured pork shank and cook until browned, then toss in mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce, mix well, and serve over cooked brown rice.

Cured Pork Shank and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup made with cured pork shank and lentils, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb)
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
  2. 2. Add the cured pork shank, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Remove the pork shank, shred the meat, and return it to the soup before serving.

Cured Pork Shank Salad with Apple Vinaigrette

A fresh salad featuring cured pork shank, mixed greens, and a tangy apple vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, sliced)
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, walnuts, and feta cheese. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
  3. 3. Top the salad with sliced cured pork shank and serve immediately.

Cured Pork Shank and Sweet Potato Hash

A delicious breakfast hash featuring crispy sweet potatoes and savory cured pork shank, perfect for starting the day right.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, diced)
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes and cook until golden and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  2. 2. Add onion and diced cured pork shank to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent and the pork is heated through.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.

Cured Pork Shank Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of cured pork shank, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, shredded)
  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix shredded pork shank, cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers, place them in a baking dish, and top with cheese if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Cured Pork Shank and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring seasoned cauliflower rice topped with tender cured pork shank and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, shredded)
  • 1 head cauliflower, riced
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Green onions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add riced cauliflower and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in spinach, grated carrot, and soy sauce, cooking until spinach is wilted.
  3. 3. Serve the cauliflower rice in bowls topped with shredded cured pork shank and garnish with green onions.

Cured Pork Shank and Chickpea Stew

A hearty stew combining cured pork shank and chickpeas, simmered with spices for a comforting and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb)
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add the cured pork shank, chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until the pork is tender.
  3. 3. Remove the pork shank, shred the meat, and return it to the stew before serving.

Cured Pork Shank and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring cured pork shank and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cured pork shank (about 1 lb, diced)
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced cured pork shank until browned.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in spinach and cooked pork.
  3. 3. Pour the mixture into the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until set. Top with cheese if desired before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is cured pork shank?

Cured pork shank is a cut of pork that has been preserved through curing methods, often resulting in a flavorful and tender meat.

How should I cook cured pork shank?

It is best cooked slowly through methods like braising or roasting to ensure tenderness and flavor.

Is cured pork shank healthy?

While it is high in protein, it can also be high in sodium, so moderation is key.

Can I use cured pork shank in soups?

Yes, it adds a rich flavor to soups and stews.

What dishes can I make with cured pork shank?

It is commonly used in dishes like split pea soup, sauerkraut, and various braised dishes.

How long does cured pork shank last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for several days; freezing can extend its shelf life.

What is the difference between cured and uncured pork shank?

Cured pork shank has been treated with salt and preservatives, while uncured pork shank is typically free from these additives.

Can I eat cured pork shank if I have high blood pressure?

It is advisable to limit intake due to its high sodium content.