- Prepare Smoked Neck Bones:
- Rinse the smoked neck bones under cold water to remove any excess salt or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of cooking oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add Smoked Neck Bones:
- Add the smoked neck bones to the pot. Sear them for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Season:
- Sprinkle thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and bay leaves over the neck bones. Stir to coat the bones with the seasonings.
- Add Potatoes:
- Add diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine with the neck bones and seasonings.
- Pour in Liquid:
- Pour in water or chicken broth to cover the neck bones and potatoes. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the neck bones are tender, and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Once the neck bones are tender and the potatoes are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Serve the smoked neck bones with potatoes in bowls, making sure to include some of the flavorful broth.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your delicious and comforting smoked neck bones with potatoes! This dish is often served with cornbread or your favorite side.
This recipe is great for a hearty and filling meal, and the smoked neck bones infuse the broth with a rich, smoky flavor.