Bone-in Shank

Bone-in shank, also known as beef shank, is a flavourful and versatile cut of meat found in cuisines around the world. This cut comes from the lower leg of the cow and contains a marrow-rich bone surrounded by tender, lean meat.

In Italy, bone-in shank is a star ingredient in the iconic dish Osso Buco, where it's braised in a savoury sauce with vegetables, white wine, and tomatoes until tender and succulent. This dish is often served with gremolata, a zesty herb condiment, and creamy risotto.

In Spain, bone-in shank is used to make Cocido Madrileño, a hearty stew featuring chickpeas, vegetables, and various meats, including the flavourful shank. This dish is enjoyed as a comforting meal during the colder months.

In the Middle East, bone-in shank is a key component of dishes like Arabic-style lamb shank, where it's slow-cooked with aromatic spices and served with rice or couscous.

Across many other cuisines, bone-in shank is prized for its rich flavour and tender texture, making it a versatile choice for braising, stewing, or slow-cooking in soups and stews. Whether you're in Italy, Spain, the Middle East, or beyond, bone-in shank is celebrated as a delicious and satisfying cut of meat.

How to Cook Bone-in Shank

Braising: Braising is one of the most popular methods for cooking bone-in shank. This involves searing the meat in a hot pan to develop a rich crust, then simmering it in a flavourful liquid such as broth, wine, or tomato sauce until it becomes tender and succulent. Braising helps to break down the tough connective tissues in the shank, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep, savoury flavour.

Slow-Cooking: Slow-cooking bone-in shank in a crockpot or slow cooker is another excellent option. This method allows the meat to cook low and slow over several hours, resulting in fork-tender shank that's infused with the flavours of the cooking liquid and seasonings. Slow-cooking is ideal for busy days when you can set it and forget it, resulting in a hearty and comforting meal.

Roasting: Roasting bone-in shank in the oven is a simple yet delicious way to cook it. Season the shank with herbs, spices, and aromatics, then roast it at a low temperature until it's tender and caramelized on the outside. Roasting concentrates the flavours of the meat and creates a crispy exterior, making it a satisfying option for special occasions or holiday dinners.

Grilling: Grilling bone-in shank over an open flame or barbecue can impart a smoky flavour and create a delicious charred exterior. Marinating the shank beforehand can add depth of flavour and help to tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavourful dish that's perfect for outdoor gatherings and cookouts.

What Can You Make with Bone-in Shank?

Here are some specific dishes featuring bone-in shank and the countries where they are popular:

Osso Buco (Italy): Osso Buco is an iconic Italian dish made with bone-in shank, typically veal or beef, braised with vegetables, white wine, and tomatoes until tender. It's often served with gremolata (a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) and creamy risotto, and is a beloved dish in Italian cuisine.

Cocido Madrileño (Spain): Cocido Madrileño is a traditional Spanish stew featuring bone-in shank, along with chickpeas, vegetables, chorizo, and other meats. This hearty and flavourful dish is popular throughout Spain, especially during the winter months.

Lamb Shank Tagine (Morocco): In Morocco, bone-in lamb shank is a key ingredient in tagine, a slow-cooked stew named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in. The shank is braised with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and vegetables, resulting in a tender and fragrant dish.

Braised Beef Shank Noodles (China): In Chinese cuisine, braised beef shank is often sliced and served over noodles in a rich broth flavoured with soy sauce, star anise, and other seasonings. This comforting dish is popular street food in many Chinese cities.

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