Pork Shank

Schweinshaxe is a traditional German dish consisting of a roasted pork shank, typically from the hind leg. It's known for its incredibly crispy, crackling skin and tender, juicy meat, often seasoned with caraway seeds, garlic, and marjoram. This hearty meal is a staple of Bavarian cuisine and is famously served at beer gardens and festivals like Oktoberfest.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a high-protein, high-fat meal with minimal carbohydrates. It provides significant amounts of B vitamins (especially B1, B6, and B12), zinc, selenium, and iron. A typical serving can range from 600 to 800 calories, depending on the size and preparation.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	720 kcal
Protein	52 g
Carbs	2 g
Fat	56 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	850 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)	1.2 mg
Vitamin B6	0.9 mg
Vitamin B12	1.5 µg
Niacin (B3)	12 mg
Zinc	6.5 mg
Selenium	45 µg
Phosphorus	420 mg
Iron	2.8 mg

Per 1 pork shank, roasted (approx. 400 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Schweinshaxe is a symbol of Bavarian conviviality and is almost always paired with a large beer. The prized 'crackling' skin is achieved through a specific roasting technique that renders the fat and crisps the rind, making it a textural highlight.