Question: are pork shanks and pork hocks the same?
Answer: Culinarily, the ham shank and the ham hock can be used interchangeably. The shank refers to a fairly meaty part just below the pork shoulder (if it is the front of the hog) or the hip (if it's from the back of the hog). The hock refers to a much bonier cut taken from just above the feet.