Pork neck bones braised until tender and served over rice with savory pot liquor is a traditional Southern family comfort meal. This high protein, budget-friendly dish is rich, hearty, and full of soul food flavor.
Rinse pork neck bones under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove impurities.
Season neck bones evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown pork neck bones on all sides in batches for about 8 minutes to build flavor; remove and set aside.
Add chopped onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the same pot; sauté on medium heat for 3 minutes, scraping up brown bits.
Return neck bones, add bay leaves, then cover with water (about 6 cups). Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1.5 hours, occasionally skimming fat and foam.
While neck bones braise, rinse rice until water runs clear, then cook according to package instructions for fluffy grains.
Once neck bones are fork tender and meat nearly falls off the bone, adjust seasoning to taste and discard bay leaves.
Serve neck bones and their savory pot liquor over a mound of rice, spooning vegetables and broth on top for maximum flavor.