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Ground Beef Shank
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Ground Beef Shank

Bos taurus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Ground beef shank is a flavorful cut of meat that comes from the leg of the cow, known for its rich taste and tenderness when cooked properly. It is often used in stews and braises, providing a hearty base for many dishes.

Also known as:
Beef Shank (USA)Ground Shank (USA)
Scientific NameBos taurus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total43.0g
Protein
26g(60%)
Fats
17g(40%)
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)0.18 mg (14%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5.7 mg (36%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.8 mg (16%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.4 mg (24%)
Folate8 mcg (2%)
Vitamin B122.4 mcg (100%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 mcgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 mcgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron2.6 mg (14%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus180 mg (26%)
Potassium315 mg (9%)
Zinc5 mg (45%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium24 mcg (44%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Manganese: 0.01 mg

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, ground beef shank supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin B12 and iron, which are crucial for energy production and maintaining healthy blood cells.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption of red meat may be associated with an increased risk of certain health issues, including heart disease and colorectal cancer. Moderation is key.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared through slow cooking methods such as braising or stewing to enhance tenderness and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose ground beef shank that is bright red in color with minimal browning, indicating freshness.

How to Store

Keep it refrigerated and use within 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, Iron-rich, Source of B vitamins.
Main Applications
Used in hearty stews and soups
Ideal for slow-cooked dishes.
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Carnosine

May help reduce fatigue and improve exercise performance.

How to Consume
Cooked, Ground, Stewed
Did you know?

"Ground beef shank is often overlooked but is a cost-effective cut that can provide rich flavors when cooked properly."

Myths vs Realities

MythAll red meat is unhealthy.
RealityModerate consumption of lean red meat can be part of a healthy diet.
MythGround beef shank is tough and unappetizing.
RealityWhen cooked properly, ground beef shank can be very tender and flavorful.
MythYou should avoid all fats in meat.
RealityHealthy fats are essential for nutrient absorption and overall health.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Ground Beef Shank Lettuce Wraps

These lettuce wraps are a fresh and low-carb option filled with spicy ground beef shank, vegetables, and a zesty sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add ground beef shank and cook until browned, then stir in bell pepper, carrots, soy sauce, and sriracha.
  3. 3. Serve the beef mixture in lettuce leaves and enjoy!

Ground Beef Shank Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl featuring ground beef shank, quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef shank, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Assemble the bowl with quinoa, beef, tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado, drizzling with olive oil.

Ground Beef Shank Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef shank, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground beef shank until browned, then mix in rice, tomatoes, cumin, and paprika.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into bell pepper halves, top with cheese if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Ground Beef Shank Zucchini Noodles

A healthy twist on pasta, featuring zucchini noodles topped with a rich ground beef shank marinara sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 2 large zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft, then add ground beef shank and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning, simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles.

Ground Beef Shank and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash combining ground beef shank, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers, perfect for starting your day right.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 2 sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add sweet potatoes, and cook until tender.
  2. 2. Add onion, bell pepper, and ground beef shank, cooking until beef is browned.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Ground Beef Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with seasoned ground beef shank and topped with a refreshing avocado salsa.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook ground beef shank in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix avocado, tomato, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper for the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve beef in tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Ground Beef Shank and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with ground beef shank and spinach, baked until golden and delicious.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 12 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground beef shank until browned, then add spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. Mix in cream cheese and Parmesan, stuff into mushroom caps, and bake for 20 minutes.

Ground Beef Shank and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring ground beef shank and cauliflower rice, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 4 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and cook ground beef shank until browned.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and cauliflower rice, stir-frying until vegetables are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce and top with green onions before serving.

Ground Beef Shank Chili

A hearty and warming chili made with ground beef shank, beans, and spices, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft, then add ground beef shank and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper, simmering for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Ground Beef Shank and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry combining ground beef shank and broccoli in a savory sauce, served over brown rice.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef shank
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, brown ground beef shank, then add garlic, ginger, and broccoli.
  2. 2. Stir in soy sauce and cook until broccoli is tender.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is ground beef shank?

Ground beef shank is a cut of meat from the leg of the cow that is ground for use in various dishes.

How should I cook ground beef shank?

It is best cooked slowly, such as in stews or braises, to enhance its tenderness and flavor.

Is ground beef shank healthy?

Yes, it is a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, but should be consumed in moderation.

Can I use ground beef shank for burgers?

While it can be used, it is better suited for slow-cooked dishes due to its texture.

What are the nutritional benefits of ground beef shank?

It provides high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health.

How do I store ground beef shank?

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What dishes can I make with ground beef shank?

It is ideal for stews, soups, and slow-cooked meals.

Is ground beef shank more affordable than other cuts?

Yes, it is often more affordable and provides great flavor when cooked properly.