Neckbones and potatoes cooked together in a slow cooker create a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. This simple yet delicious recipe will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Using a slow cooker allows the meat to become tender and juicy, while the potatoes absorb all the amazing flavors. The slow cooking method also ensures that all the ingredients meld together to create a harmonious and mouthwatering meal.
One of the best things about cooking neckbones and potatoes in a slow cooker is that it requires minimal effort. You can simply set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while the slow cooker does all the work.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a dish that will warm your heart and soul.
Prepare neckbones and potatoes in the slow cooker
Using a slow cooker is a convenient and easy way to prepare delicious and tender neckbones and potatoes. This slow-cooked dish is perfect for a comforting meal, and the flavors develop beautifully as the ingredients simmer together.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of neckbones
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 2 cups of beef broth
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, place the neckbones, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Sprinkle this mixture over the neckbones and potatoes.
- Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker, ensuring that the ingredients are covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the neckbones are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the neckbones and potatoes from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon.
- Using a fork, shred the meat off the neckbones and discard any bones or excess fat.
- Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
- Serve the neckbones and potatoes hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
---|---|---|---|
300 | 15g | 25g | 20g |
This slow cooker recipe for neckbones and potatoes is a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. With minimal prep work and the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy on a busy day.
Choosing the right ingredients
When it comes to cooking neckbones and potatoes in the slow cooker, the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here are a few key ingredients you’ll need to ensure a delicious and flavorful dish:
Neckbones
First and foremost, you’ll need high-quality neckbones. Look for neckbones that are fresh and have a good amount of meat on them. The meat should be tender and not too fatty. It’s also important to choose neckbones that have been properly cleaned and trimmed.
Potatoes
Next, you’ll need potatoes. Russet potatoes are a popular choice for slow cooker recipes as they hold their shape well during the long cooking process. However, you can also use red potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes if you prefer. Make sure to wash and peel the potatoes before adding them to the slow cooker.
In addition to neckbones and potatoes, you’ll need other ingredients such as onions, garlic, broth, and seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish. It’s important to choose fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best results.
Gathering the necessary equipment
Before you begin cooking neckbones and potatoes in the slow cooker, it’s important to gather all the necessary equipment. Being prepared and having everything on hand will make the cooking process much smoother.
Here is a list of the equipment you will need:
Equipment | Description |
Slow cooker | A large appliance with a ceramic or metal pot that heats food slowly over a long period of time. |
Kitchen knife | A sharp knife used for cutting the neckbones and potatoes into smaller pieces. |
Cutting board | A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients. |
Peeler | A tool used to peel the skin off potatoes. |
Measuring cups and spoons | Utensils used to accurately measure ingredients. |
Large mixing bowl | A bowl used for mixing ingredients together. |
Can opener | A tool used to open cans of ingredients, such as vegetables or broth. |
Tongs or slotted spoon | Utensils used for safely handling and serving food from the slow cooker. |
Plates and utensils | Plates and forks or spoons for serving and eating the cooked neckbones and potatoes. |
Having all of these items ready will ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly, and you will have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end.
Prepping the neckbones and potatoes
Before you start cooking your neckbones and potatoes in the slow cooker, it is important to properly prep them. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and flavorful meal:
Ingredients: | Instructions: |
Neckbones: | |
– 2 pounds of neckbones | |
– 1 teaspoon of salt | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika | |
– 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme | |
Potatoes: | |
– 4 medium-sized potatoes | |
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder | |
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder | |
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika | |
– 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme |
1. Start by rinsing the neckbones under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture onto the neckbones, covering them evenly.
3. Next, prepare the potatoes by scrubbing them clean under cold water. Leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
4. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
5. In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix well.
6. Toss the potato pieces in the olive oil mixture until they are evenly coated.
Your neckbones and potatoes are now prepped and ready to be cooked in the slow cooker!
Cooking the dish in the slow cooker
Step 1: Wash the neckbones thoroughly under cold running water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Then, cut the meat into smaller pieces, if desired.
Step 2: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the neckbones on all sides until they are browned. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the dish.
Step 4: Transfer the seared neckbones and drained potatoes to the slow cooker. Add enough water or broth to cover the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. You can also add chopped onions, garlic, or carrots for additional flavor.
Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and power of your slow cooker. The neckbones should be tender and the potatoes should be cooked through.
Step 6: Once cooked, remove the neckbones and potatoes from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving dish. Skim the excess fat from the cooking liquid and pour it over the meat and potatoes.
Step 7: Serve the neckbones and potatoes hot as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!
Adding flavor and seasonings
When cooking neckbones and potatoes in the slow cooker, it’s important to add the right seasonings to enhance the flavor of the dish. Here are some flavorful options you can consider:
1. Salt and pepper
Start by seasoning the neckbones and potatoes with salt and pepper. This basic combination helps to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
2. Garlic and onion powder
For added depth of flavor, sprinkle some garlic and onion powder over the neckbones and potatoes. These aromatics will give your dish a delicious savory taste.
3. Paprika and cayenne pepper
If you prefer a bit of heat, add some paprika and cayenne pepper to your slow cooker. These spices will add a subtle kick to the dish, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
4. Herbs and spices
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the taste. Some popular options include rosemary, thyme, oregano, or even a bay leaf. These herbs add a fragrant note to the dish and complement the other seasonings well.
Remember to adjust the seasonings according to your personal preference and taste. Feel free to customize the flavors to suit your liking.
FAQ
What are neckbones?
Neckbones are cuts of meat from the neck of an animal, usually pork or beef. They are known for their rich, flavorful meat and are often used in soups, stews, and slow-cooked dishes.
Can I cook neckbones and potatoes in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely cook neckbones and potatoes in a slow cooker. It’s a great way to get tender meat and soft potatoes with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together and results in a delicious and hearty dish.
What is the cooking time for neckbones and potatoes in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for neckbones and potatoes in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat and potatoes. However, as a general guideline, cooking on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours should give you tender and fully cooked neckbones and potatoes.
Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker with neckbones and potatoes?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables to the slow cooker with neckbones and potatoes. Popular choices include carrots, onions, celery, and bell peppers. These vegetables will add more flavor and texture to the dish.
Do I need to brown the neckbones before putting them in the slow cooker?
Browning the neckbones before putting them in the slow cooker is optional. Browning can help enhance the flavor and appearance of the meat, but if you’re short on time or prefer a simpler preparation, you can skip this step. The slow cooking process will still result in tender and flavorful neckbones.