Beef Shank – Thor Hammer Cut
Delicious Beef Shank Recipes and Serving Suggestions
Welcome to your ultimate guide for cooking and serving beef shank! Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned home chef, we’ve got you covered with mouth-watering recipes and serving ideas that will elevate your beef shank to a whole new level.
Classic Braised Beef Shank
Ingredients:
- 4 beef shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the beef shanks with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the shanks until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Add the beef broth and rosemary, and bring to a boil.
- Return the shanks to the pot, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.
Serving Suggestion: Serve your braised beef shank over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Slow-Cooked Beef Shank Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 beef shanks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the beef shanks in a slow cooker.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, barley, beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beef is fall-apart tender.
- Remove the shanks, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
Serving Suggestion: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Beef Shank Tacos
Ingredients:
- 2 beef shanks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 jalapeños, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Season the beef shanks with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the shanks until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, jalapeños, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
- Return the shanks to the pot, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.
- Remove the shanks, shred the meat, and return it to the sauce.
Serving Suggestion: Fill tortillas with the shredded beef mixture and top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with a side of Mexican rice and beans for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef Shank Dishes
- Slow and Low: Cooking beef shank low and slow ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Flavor Boost: Searing the shanks before braising locks in juices and adds depth to your dish.
- Versatility: Shredded beef shank is perfect for soups, stews, tacos, and more. Get creative with your leftovers!
With these recipes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering beef shank dishes that impress every time. Happy cooking!