Description
This hearty beef shank stew recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for chilly days. Slow-cooked beef shanks become incredibly tender in a rich broth with vegetables, creating a satisfying and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 lbs beef shanks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the beef shanks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef shanks on all sides until they are nicely browned. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- If using red wine, deglaze the pot by pouring it in and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Return the beef shanks to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 3 hours, or until the beef shanks are very tender.
- After 3 hours, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If desired, add frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
- Choose quality beef shanks with good marbling for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip searing the beef; it adds a crucial layer of flavor.
- Simmer the stew low and slow for maximum tenderness.
- Adjust the broth if the stew becomes too thick.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stewing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: beef shank stew, beef stew, braised beef shank, slow cooker beef shank, hearty stew, comfort food recipe, winter stew, beef recipe