The Ultimate Guide On How Long To Cook Neckbones On Stove

How To Cook Neck Bones On The Stove Cooking Tom from cookingtom.com

Neckbones are a flavorful and affordable cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. However, cooking neckbones on the stove can be a bit tricky. With the right technique and timing, you can achieve tender and juicy neckbones that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this article, we will delve into the nitty-gritty of how long to cook neckbones on the stove and provide you with tips and tricks to make the perfect neckbones every time.

What are Neckbones?

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's first understand what neckbones are. Neckbones are meaty cuts that come from the neck of a pig, cow, or lamb. They are a tough cut of meat that requires slow cooking to break down the connective tissue and make them tender. Neckbones are often used in soups, stews, and curries to add flavor and depth to the dish. They are also a popular ingredient in soul food and Southern-style cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Cook Neckbones on Stove

Now that we know what neckbones are let's get into the cooking process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook neckbones on the stove:

Step 1: Preheat the Pan

Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Let it preheat for a few minutes until it's hot enough to sear the neckbones.

Step 2: Sear the Neckbones

Season the neckbones with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. Once the pot is hot, add the neckbones and sear them on all sides until they are browned and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the neckbones will help seal in the juices and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Add the Liquid

Once the neckbones are seared, add enough liquid to cover them. You can use water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Add any additional seasonings or vegetables at this point if you wish.

Step 4: Simmer the Neckbones

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the neckbones simmer for 2-3 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the neckbones. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat. If it falls off the bone easily, it's ready. If not, continue simmering until it's tender.

Other Ways to Cook Neckbones on Stove

Braising Neckbones

Braising is another popular method of cooking neckbones on the stove. Braising involves searing the meat and then cooking it slowly in a liquid until it's tender. Here's how to braise neckbones:

Step 1: Preheat the Pan and Sear the Neckbones

Follow the same steps as outlined in the previous section to sear the neckbones.

Step 2: Add the Liquid and Vegetables

Once the neckbones are seared, remove them from the pot and set them aside. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Add a cup of wine or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Return the Neckbones to the Pot

Return the neckbones to the pot and add enough liquid to cover them. You can use water, broth, or a combination of both. Add any additional seasonings or vegetables at this point if you wish.

Step 4: Simmer the Neckbones

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the neckbones simmer for 2-3 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat. If it falls off the bone easily, it's ready.

Boiling Neckbones

Boiling is a quick and easy way to cook neckbones on the stove. Here's how to boil neckbones:

Step 1: Place the Neckbones in a Pot

Place the neckbones in a large pot and cover them with water. Add any seasonings or vegetables at this point if you wish.

Step 2: Boil the Neckbones

Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let the neckbones simmer for 2-3 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat. If it falls off the bone easily, it's ready.

Smothered Neckbones

Smothering is a Southern-style cooking method that involves searing the meat and then cooking it slowly in a rich gravy. Here's how to smother neckbones:

Step 1: Sear the Neckbones

Season the neckbones with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. Sear them in a hot pan until they are browned and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Gravy

Remove the neckbones from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until they are soft and translucent. Add a can of tomatoes and a cup of broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Step 3: Simmer the Neckbones in the Gravy

Return the neckbones to the pan and spoon the gravy over them. Cover the pan and let the neckbones simmer in the gravy for 2-3 hours or until they are tender.

Conclusion

Learning how long to cook neckbones on the stove is essential if you want to create mouth-watering dishes using this flavorful cut of meat. Whether you prefer to braise, boil, or smother your neckbones, the key is to cook them low and slow until they are tender and juicy. With the tips and techniques we've outlined in this article, you'll be able to make the perfect neckbones every time.

Cooking Method	Cooking Time
Simmering	2-3 hours
Braising	2-3 hours
Boiling	2-3 hours
Smothering	2-3 hours

Source: cookingtom.com