Braised Pork Shanks with Israeli Cous Cous and Root Vegetable Stew

This recipe was created by renowned Chef Tom Valenti of Ouest Restaurant in New York City.

2 cups water Pinch salt

11/3 cup Israeli couscous (or regular couscous)

4 24-ounce pork shanks, bone in, skin removed Coarse salt

Freshly ground black pepper 1 cup olive oil

4 large carrots, peeled and cut on the bias into 1-inch segments (set 2 carrots aside for later in this recipe)

1 Spanish onion, peeled and quartered

4 stalks celery, cut on the bias into 1-inch segments (set 2 stalks aside for later in this recipe)

4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

2 cups dry white wine

1/4 cup distilled white vinegar

1/4 cup tomato paste

1-11/2quarts low sodium chicken broth (amount will vary depending on the size of the shanks)

2 tablespoons mustard oil (available from Middle Eastern shops - this dish can be made without this item)

1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

Cous Cous:

1.Place the VersaWare® Pro stoneware on stovetop set to medium-low heat. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.

2.Add 11/3 cups of Israeli couscous and cook, stirring until tender about 6-8 minutes. Drain and use immediately or rinse under cold water and reserve for later use.

Recipe is continued on next page.

Note: when using an electric stovetop, the heat diffuser

40MUST ALWAYS be used with the VersaWare® Pro stoneware.

Pork Shanks:

1.Season the shanks well with salt and pepper.

2.Place the VersaWare® Pro stoneware on stovetop set to medium-low heat, add the oil and heat until hot but not smoking. Add the shanks and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3.Pour off all but about 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add half of the carrots, half of the celery, the onion and garlic and cook on stovetop over a medium-low heat until the vegetables are soft but not brown, about 5 minutes.

4.Add the tomato paste, wine, vinegar, mustard oil, chicken broth and peppercorns and bring to a boil, stirring and scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Return the shanks to the stoneware and place stoneware on heating base. Cover; cook on High for 2 hours, turning the shanks every 20 minutes or so.

5.Remove the shanks, strain out all of the solids from the braising liquid, and add in the uncooked carrot and celery. Place the shanks back in stoneware and onto slow cooker heating base and cover.

6.Cook on High for 1 hour. Check the shanks for doneness: remove one and place it on a plate. The meat should be very soft but still attached to the bone.

7.To serve; add the precooked couscous to the stoneware just to reheat, about 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon remove some of the couscous, carrot and celery and place in the bottom of a shallow bowl. Place a pork shank on top of that and then spoon 2-3 ounces of the braising liquid into the bowl.

Serves 4

Note: when using an electric stovetop, the heat diffuser

41

MUST ALWAYS be used with the VersaWare® Pro stoneware.

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Crock-Pot VersaWare Pro owner manual Cous Cous, Pork Shanks
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VersaWare Pro specifications

The Crock-Pot VersaWare Pro is a versatile cooking appliance designed for modern kitchens, revolutionizing the way users prepare meals with its innovative features and user-friendly technology. This multifunctional slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors of your favorite recipes, making it an essential tool for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

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The slow cooking technology employed in the VersaWare Pro is exceptional. It uses a low and steady heat to tenderize ingredients, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over extended cooking periods. Whether you choose to slow cook for as little as four hours or up to ten, this appliance will ensure your meal is cooked evenly and safely. The keep-warm feature is another great addition, allowing meals to be held at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking.

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In summary, the Crock-Pot VersaWare Pro stands out in the realm of slow cookers and multi-cookers with its programmable features, robust cooking technology, and stylish design. It truly embodies convenience, versatility, and efficiency, making it a valuable addition to any culinary enthusiast's kitchen arsenal.
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