Wisconsin-style Slow-cooked Pork Shank

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Filipino dish, Pata tim, is transformed into a Wisconsin-style slow-cooked pork shank. The traditional Asian flavors are replaced with Wisconsin's signature ingredients such as beer, cheese, and maple syrup. The cooking technique is also modified to achieve a tender and flavorful result that is characteristic of Wisconsin cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Pata tim, so you can check it out.

• 4 pork shanks (about 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg) 4 pork shanks (about 2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) beer (preferably a Wisconsin craft beer) 1 cup (240 ml) beer (preferably a Wisconsin craft beer)
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese 1 cup (240 ml) shredded Wisconsin cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 25g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (10g sugars)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. 2.
   Season the pork shanks with salt and pepper.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Sear the pork shanks on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same pot, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
6. 6.
   Pour in the beer and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
7. 7.
   Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. 8.
   Return the pork shanks to the pot, nestling them into the sauce.
9. 9.
   Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
10. 10.
    Slow-cook the pork shanks for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
11. 11.
    Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the pork shanks to a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
12. 12.
    Place the pot back on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir in the maple syrup and simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
13. 13.
    Return the pork shanks to the pot and coat them with the maple glaze.
14. 14.
    Serve the Wisconsin-style slow-cooked pork shanks hot, spooning the sauce over the top.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shanks — Make sure to sear the pork shanks properly to develop a rich flavor before slow-cooking them. This step is crucial for achieving tender and juicy meat.
• Wisconsin cheddar cheese — Opt for a high-quality Wisconsin cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting properties in the sauce.
• Maple syrup — Use pure maple syrup for the glaze to enhance the sweetness and add a distinct Wisconsin touch to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a stronger beer flavor, use a dark or amber beer in the sauce.
• If you prefer a milder cheese flavor, you can use a combination of Wisconsin cheddar and mozzarella.
• Serve the pork shanks with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a delicious next-day meal.
• If you don't have an oven-safe pot, you can transfer the pork shanks and sauce to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Wisconsin-style slow-cooked pork shanks on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. Spoon some of the flavorful sauce over the pork shanks and serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pork shanks on the platter with the bones facing upwards for an appealing presentation. Drizzle some of the maple glaze over the meat and sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for an extra touch of elegance.