It's worth a call to the butcher to procure fresh pork shanks. These flavors will remind you of classic German sauerbraten. Let shanks oven braise, undisturbed, until very tender. Serve with sliced rye bread and a cucumber and dill salad.

Fresh Pork Shank German-Style

2 fresh pork shanks, about 3 to 4 pounds total
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 slices bacon, diced
1 large onion, peeled and sliced
1 (32-ounce) packaged refrigerated sauerkraut, rinsed and drained well.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons brown sugar
4 ounces beer, room temperature

1. Season shanks with salt and pepper, set aside.
2. In large Dutch oven or pot sauté bacon to render fat, stir in onion and cook and stir until onion is tender but not brown; push to one side of pan. Add shanks and brown on all sides, about 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, in large bowl stir together drained sauerkraut and remaining ingredients.
4. Remove shanks, place sauerkraut mixture on bottom of pan, return shanks on top of kraut, drizzle beer over all. Cover and place in 350°F (175°C) oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, until shanks are very tender.

Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts: Calories 680 calories Protein 87 grams Fat 25 grams Sodium 1120 milligrams Cholesterol 245 milligrams Saturated Fat 9 grams Carbohydrates 22 grams

Recipe provided courtesy of Pork: The Other White Meat.