What is a pork shank?

A pork shank is a cut of meat from the lower leg of a pig. A pork shank contains part of the pig's femur, or leg bone, and part of its shank bone.

Pork shank is either sold raw or already cured and smoked and ready for consumption. When individuals purchase raw shank bones, they usually prepare the meat by marinating it in herbs and roasting it. Individuals also cook pork shank by braising it in wine, herbs, beef, pork or chicken broth, vegetables and salt and pepper to taste. Pork shank is also prepared on a rotisserie or indoor or outdoor grill.