Hearty and Delicious Pork Ham Shank Recipe for Comfort Meals

Instructions

1. Preheat a large heavy pot over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Season the pork ham shank with salt and black pepper on all sides.
3. Place the pork ham shank in the pot and brown it on all sides, about 4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the browned ham shank and set aside on a plate.
5. Add diced onion, sliced carrot, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
6. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
8. Return the pork ham shank to the pot and add chicken broth, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf.
9. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot with a lid.
10. Reduce heat to low and let the ham shank braise gently for 2 to 2.5 hours until tender.
11. Check occasionally and add a little water if needed to keep the meat partially submerged.
12. Once tender, remove the ham shank and vegetables from the pot and keep warm.
13. Increase heat to medium-high and reduce the cooking liquid until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
14. Serve the pork ham shank with the reduced sauce spooned over and vegetables on the side.