How to Cook Seasoned Pork Button Bones: A Complete Guide

Pork button bones, also known as button ribs, are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in many different ways. If you’re looking to add some excitement to your pork recipes, seasoning and cooking pork button bones is a great option

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to cook seasoned pork button bones, from choosing the right seasoning and cooking methods to serving suggestions. Let’s get started!

What Are Pork Button Bones?

Pork button bones are small circular-shaped bones located at the sirloin end of the pork loin. They consist of the last 4-6 bones on the backbone without ribs attached.

The meat on button bones is thin strips covering the bones and connecting them. Despite their name, pork button bones are actually small segments of cartilage and bone, not true ribs.

This lean cut can be used in stews, soups, casseroles, and more. They can also be grilled or roasted for a crispy exterior and tender interior. When preparing them, trim excess fat and remove the silver skin for best results.

Choosing a Seasoning

Choosing the right seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavor in pork button bones. The ideal seasoning should complement the pork without overpowering it. Here are some options to consider:

• Dry rub: A homemade dry rub allows you to customize the flavor. Try brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• BBQ sauce or marinade: Opt for one designed specifically for pork with a balanced flavor. Rufus Teague BBQ Sauce or Spicy Meat Rub work well.

• Spice blends: Blends like Greek Freak Mediterranean Seasoning pack sweet, savory, and spicy flavors perfect for pork.

No matter what you choose, apply the seasoning generously over the button bones to infuse the meat with maximum flavor.

Cooking Methods

You can cook seasoned pork button bones using various methods, each resulting in slightly different textures and flavors.

Grilling

Grilling imparts a delicious smoky char while rendering the fat and creating a nice crust. Use indirect heat around 325°F and grill for 2-2.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 160-170°F. Flip occasionally and baste with BBQ sauce toward the end.

Baking

Baking yields tender and juicy button bones with a crispy exterior. Bake at 425°F for 2.5 hours until fully cooked. Finish under the broiler or on the grill for extra crispiness.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking results in fall-off-the-bone tender button bones infused with flavor. Cook on low for 8-10 hours in a slow cooker with seasoning, garlic, and wine. Shred meat before serving.

Air Frying

Air frying provides a quick crisping method after initial cooking. Toss cooked button bones in oil then air fry at 400°F for 4-5 minutes until browned and sizzling.

Serving Suggestions

You have lots of options when it comes to serving your seasoned pork button bones. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw

• Over rice, cauliflower rice, or pasta

• In tacos, burritos, or quesadillas

• On nachos or flatbread with cheese

• In soups, stews, casseroles, or chili

• On a hearty salad

• As an appetizer with dipping sauces

Any way you choose to serve them, seasoned pork button bones make a mouthwatering, tender addition to many meals.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now that you know the basics, follow this simple recipe for foolproof seasoned pork button bones every time.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork button bones
• 1⁄4 cup Spiceology Greek Freak Mediterranean Seasoning
• 1⁄2 cup chicken broth or stock
• Vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Rinse pork button bones under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Place button bones in a resealable plastic bag. Add Greek Freak seasoning and massage seasoning all over the meat. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place seasoned button bones in a baking dish and add chicken broth.

4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours until fork tender.

5. Carefully remove button bones from the oven. Remove foil and drain any excess liquid from the pan.

6. Line a plate with paper towels. Brush button bones with vegetable oil then place in a single layer on the plate.

7. Let sit for 10 minutes to air dry slightly. The air drying helps create a crispy exterior when cooking further.

8. For grilling – Heat grill to medium-high. Oil grates then grill button bones 6-8 minutes per side until nicely charred. Baste with BBQ sauce the last 2-3 minutes.

9. For air frying – Air fry at 400°F for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and sizzling.

10. For broiling – Place button bones on a broiler pan coated with oil. Broil 6 inches from heat for 5-7 minutes per side until crispy.

11. Let button bones rest 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Cooking up seasoned pork button bones is easy and rewarding. With the right seasoning and cooking method, you can enjoy this underutilized cut in many mouthwatering ways. Experiment with different seasonings and servings to find your favorite preparation.