This Southern Beef Neck Bones recipe is a family favorite. It is cooked on the stove until the meat falls off the bones. Pair this with rice, greens, or cornbread. You may also love our Pork Neck Bones.
Walk through any Southern meat market and you’ll spotneck bones prominently displayed But what exactly are neck bones, and do they come from beef or pork? Let’s explore the origins, differences, and culinary uses of these flavorful cuts.
Defining Neck Bones
Neck bones are cuts of meat from the neck vertebrae of cattle or hogs They consist of bone, cartilage, and just a little meat
-
Beef neck bones come from cows. They have a hearty structure and robust flavor.
-
Pork neck bones come from pigs. They tend to be smaller and more delicate than beef.
While low in meat, neck bones are packed with collagen. This protein enhances mouthfeel and imparts rich flavor as it breaks down during cooking.
Key Differences Between Beef and Pork Neck Bones
Though both derive from the neck, beef and pork neck bones have some distinct differences:
-
Size: Beef neck bones are larger and meatier due to the cow’s bigger frame. Pork neck bones are often smaller and daintier.
-
Shape: Beef neck bones have a thicker, dense bone structure. Pork neck bones tend to have a more slender frame.
-
Fat content: Beef neck bones have more intramuscular fat marbled through the meat. Pork neck bones are leaner.
-
Collagen content: Beef neck bones contain more collagen than pork. This translates to more gelatin, body, and richness when cooking.
-
Flavor: Beef neck bones have a deeper, more mineral-y flavor. Pork neck bones offer a slightly milder, sweeter taste.
-
Uses: Pork neck bones shine when braised for stews. Beef neck bones work well roasted or grilled too.
Nutritional Values
While not a lean cut, neck bones offer some nutritional perks:
-
Protein: Neck bones provide about 5-7g protein per bone. The collagen also boosts protein.
-
Iron: Around 10-15% of the RDI of iron comes from 3 ounces of neck bones.
-
Zinc: You get around 25% of your daily zinc needs from a 3 ounce serving.
-
B Vitamins: These bones offer B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and B12.
When enjoyed in moderation, neck bones can be part of a balanced diet. Slow cooking extracts maximum flavor and nutrition from these bony cuts.
How to Cook Neck Bones
These tough cuts require slow moist-heat cooking to become tender and develop deep flavor. Here are some classic preparation methods:
-
Braising: This technique simmer neck bones for hours in a flavorful liquid until meltingly tender. Try wine, broth, barbecue sauce, etc.
-
Stewing: Cut neck bones into pieces to braise in a sauce or gravy as the base for stews.
-
Soup: Add whole neck bones to soups for body, flavor, and nutrients. Remove bones before serving.
-
Roasting: Season and roast beef neck boneslow and slow to intensify flavor.
-
Grilling: Quick grill pork or beef neck bones just until charred and warmed through.
Neck bones pair well with aromatics like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Seasonings like thyme, bay leaves, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne also complement their flavor.
Popular Neck Bone Dishes
Here are some classic recipes that showcase neck bones:
-
Southern-style neck bones and gravy with mashed potatoes or over rice
-
Hearty neck bone stew with potatoes, green beans, tomatoes
-
Smoky grilled neck bones with barbecue rub
-
Neck bone soup with veggies and beans
-
Neck bone dirty rice with spicy sausage
-
Braised neck bones served over creamy grits
-
Wine-braised neck bones with mushrooms and pearl onions
From down-home family meals to fancy restaurant creations, neck bones infuse dishes with concentrated flavor and luscious body. Their versatility allows them to shine across cuisines.
The Takeaway on Neck Bones
While low in meat, neck bones offer tremendous flavor and texture. Both beef and pork neck bones have their strengths in the kitchen. When braised, stewed, or grilled, these cuts transform tough yet tasty.
Next time you spot neck bones at the market, grab some to add deep, meaty flavor to your next braise, soup, or stew. Just be sure to cook them low and slow to savor their rich essence.
Can You Add Vegetables?
Absolutely! Just about any vegetable will work. Simply add them to the pot to cook low with the meat.
Where to Buy Them
You may find packages of neck bones with little to no meat, which are mostly bones. Pay close attention and look for packages with meatier bones.
I find them readily available in local grocery stores. You can also check specialty markets, even some Asian grocery stores.
My Secret Recipe For Neck Bones & Gravy Revealed! – I Heart Recipes
FAQ
What are neck bones made of?
What kind of animal is Neckbones?
Are beef neck bones good to eat?
Do people eat pork neck?
Which kind of neck bones are eaten?
Pork and beef neck bones are the most popular types of neck bones eaten. While pork is the most commonly discussed, beef neck bones also have their place. Outside of pork and beef, lamb, turkey, and chicken neck bones are used to make broths and their own meals. Today, we’ll be focusing on pork and beef neck bones.
How do you cook pork neck bones?
To cook pork neck bones, first clean and pat dry them. Season with salt and pepper, then place in a large pot and cover with 2-3 inches of water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for an hour or until tender. Skim off any foam that arises. In the last few minutes, drop in vegetables and any other desired ingredients.
Can neck bones be considered beef?
Neck bones are considered beef and are one of my favorite ingredients to cook with. They are just as flavorful as short ribs or oxtails but come at a fraction of the cost. In this recipe, they are seared before getting braised low and slow in a mix of beef stock, red wine, and tomato paste.
What can you use beef neck bones for?
Beef neck bones are versatile because they have both meat that can be used in soups and stews, and bones for making homemade beef broth. Skim the fat: As the beef neck bones cook, they will release fat.