Description
Learn how to braise beef shank to tender perfection! This guide covers optimal braising time, preparation steps, and tips for a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish.
Ingredients
- Beef shanks
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Red wine (or beef broth)
- Beef broth
- Optional spices (thyme, bay leaf, rosemary)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from beef shanks and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear beef shanks on all sides until deeply browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly caramelized.
- Pour in red wine (or beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Return the beef shanks to the pot and add enough beef broth to nearly cover them. Add any optional spices.
- Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) or simmer gently on the stovetop.
- Braise for approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, checking for tenderness after 2.5 hours. The beef shank is ready when it is easily pierced with a fork and pulls apart effortlessly.
- Allow the braised beef shank to rest in the braising liquid for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, polenta, or risotto, with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad on the side.
Notes
- Searing the beef shanks is crucial for developing rich flavors.
- Maintain a consistent low temperature throughout the braising process.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often to prevent heat and moisture loss.
- If the liquid reduces too quickly, add more broth or water.
- Resting the beef in the braising liquid after cooking enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American/European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shank with sauce
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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