Best Beef Shanks Recipe
Beef shanks are a classic comfort food that are perfect for a hearty meal. The rich flavor and tenderness of the meat make it a favorite among many, and with the right recipe, it can be a showstopper at any dinner party.
Recipes Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Recipe Category: Main Dish
- Recipe Cuisine: American
- Aggregate Rating: 4.8/5
Ingredient List
- 4 beef shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring occasionally until onions are caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add beef shanks to the Dutch oven and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
- Stir in beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
- Remove the beef shanks from the Dutch oven and keep them warm. Discard the bay leaves.
- Skim any fat from the surface of the sauce and reduce it over medium heat until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve the beef shanks with the sauce and your favorite sides.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrition Information | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Total Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 130mg |
| Sodium | 920mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 41g |
Recipes FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
What sides go well with beef shanks?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad would be great sides to serve with beef shanks.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker. Brown the beef shanks first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat. Short ribs, brisket, or chuck roast would be good substitutes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What type of red wine should I use?
Use a dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Recipes Tips
If you're short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the beef shanks. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking times.
For a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the sauce and simmer until it thickens.
Make sure to brown the beef shanks on both sides before adding the liquid. This will help seal in the juices and give the meat a nice crust.