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Braised Beef Shank
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Braised Beef Shank

Bos taurus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Braised beef shank is a flavorful cut of meat that becomes tender and succulent when slow-cooked. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a hearty addition to any meal.

Also known as:
Beef ShankShank Steak
Scientific NameBos taurus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total45.0g
Protein
30g(67%)
Fats
15g(33%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.4 mg (24%)
Vitamin B122 mcg (83%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron2.6 mg (14%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium350 mg (10%)
Zinc5 mg (45%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Manganese: 0.01 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fat; moderation is advised for those with heart conditions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Slow cooking or braising is recommended to enhance tenderness and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cuts that are bright red with a good amount of marbling for flavor.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in collagen, beneficial for joint health.
Main Applications
Used in hearty stews and soups
Ideal for slow-cooked dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Collagen

Supports joint health and skin elasticity.

How to Consume
Braised, Stewed, Soups
Did you know?

"Braised beef shank is often used in traditional dishes around the world, showcasing its versatility."

Myths vs Realities

MythBraised beef shank is tough and not worth cooking.
RealityWhen cooked properly, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
MythAll beef cuts are the same.
RealityDifferent cuts have varying flavors, textures, and cooking methods.
MythYou can't use beef shank for anything other than stews.
RealityBeef shank can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups and braises.

Healthy Recipes

Herb-Infused Braised Beef Shank with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender braised beef shank infused with fresh herbs, served alongside a nutritious quinoa salad packed with vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the beef shank with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary, then sear in a hot pot until browned on all sides.
  2. 2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot, sautéing until softened, then pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Cover and braise in the oven at 300°F for 3 hours until tender, while cooking quinoa according to package instructions and mixing with cherry tomatoes and parsley.

Spicy Braised Beef Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These flavorful tacos feature spicy braised beef shank topped with a fresh avocado salsa, perfect for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs beef shank
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub the beef shank with chili powder, cumin, salt, and sear in a pot until browned.
  2. 2. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, then pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Cover and braise in the oven at 325°F for 2.5 hours, then shred the beef and serve in tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Braised Beef Shank with Root Vegetable Mash

A comforting dish of braised beef shank served over a creamy mash of root vegetables, offering a hearty yet healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 4 cups mixed root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, turnips)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the beef shank in olive oil until browned, then remove and sauté onion and garlic.
  2. 2. Return the beef to the pot, add broth, and braise covered at 300°F for 3 hours.
  3. 3. Boil root vegetables until tender, mash with Greek yogurt, and serve the beef over the mash.

Mediterranean Braised Beef Shank with Couscous

This Mediterranean-inspired dish features braised beef shank served over fluffy couscous, enriched with olives and sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 1 cup couscous
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup olives, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Brown the beef shank in a pot, then remove and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, beef broth, and oregano, then return the beef and braise at 300°F for 3 hours.
  3. 3. Prepare couscous according to package instructions and serve the beef over it.

Braised Beef Shank with Sweet Potato and Kale

A nourishing dish featuring braised beef shank served with roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed kale for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, cubed
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the beef shank in olive oil, then remove and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add beef broth and return the beef, braising at 300°F for 3 hours.
  3. 3. Roast sweet potatoes until tender and sauté kale until wilted, serving everything together.

Asian-Style Braised Beef Shank with Bok Choy

This recipe features braised beef shank with Asian flavors, served with tender bok choy and jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups bok choy, chopped
  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the beef shank, then add onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and broth, braising at 300°F for 3 hours.
  2. 2. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions and steam bok choy until tender.
  3. 3. Serve the beef over rice with bok choy on the side.

Braised Beef Shank with Mushroom Risotto

A luxurious dish of braised beef shank served over creamy mushroom risotto, combining rich flavors and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Brown the beef shank, then remove and sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until soft.
  2. 2. Add Arborio rice, stirring for 2 minutes, then gradually add broth while stirring until creamy.
  3. 3. Serve the braised beef over the risotto, topped with Parmesan.

Braised Beef Shank with Lentil Stew

A hearty and nutritious lentil stew featuring tender braised beef shank, perfect for a filling and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the beef shank, then remove and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft.
  2. 2. Add lentils, beef broth, and thyme, returning the beef to the pot and braising at 300°F for 3 hours.
  3. 3. Serve the beef shank with a generous portion of lentil stew.

Braised Beef Shank with Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Delicious bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of braised beef shank, spinach, and feta cheese, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef shank
  • 4 bell peppers, halved
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sear the beef shank, then remove and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add beef broth and return the beef, braising at 300°F for 3 hours.
  3. 3. Shred the beef and mix with spinach and feta, then stuff into bell peppers and bake until peppers are tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is braised beef shank?

Braised beef shank is a cut of meat that is slow-cooked in liquid until tender.

How long does it take to braise beef shank?

It typically takes 2-3 hours to braise beef shank until tender.

What are the best seasonings for braised beef shank?

Common seasonings include garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Can I use beef shank for soups?

Yes, beef shank adds rich flavor and nutrition to soups.

Is braised beef shank healthy?

It is high in protein and essential nutrients but should be consumed in moderation due to fat content.

What sides pair well with braised beef shank?

Mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted vegetables complement it well.

Can I freeze braised beef shank?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to reheat braised beef shank?

Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a bit of broth.