Are you dreaming of a hearty, comforting meal that practically melts in your mouth? Look no further than this incredibly easy crock pot beef shank recipe! This recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender beef, bursting with rich flavor, all with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this is one of those delicious dishes that's sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't sacrifice taste. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef shanks
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For extra depth of flavor, start by searing the beef shanks. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef shanks generously with salt and pepper. Sear the shanks on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn't strictly necessary but significantly enhances the final flavor.
Step 2: Assembling in the Crock Pot
Place the seared (or unseared) beef shanks in your crock pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Next, add the minced garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.
Step 4: Serving Suggestions
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the beef with two forks, discarding the bone. You can then return the shredded beef to the crock pot and stir it into the delicious cooking liquid to keep it moist. Serve this delectable dish over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Choosing your Beef: Look for beef shanks that have good marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Ensure there is enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the beef and vegetables from the crock pot. Simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop until it reduces to your desired consistency. You can also use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
Variations:
- Add other Vegetables: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra heat.
- Make it a Stew: Add potatoes and other hearty vegetables to transform this into a hearty beef stew.
- Different Wine: Experiment with different types of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. This is an estimate based on a serving of approximately 250g:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-20g
This crock pot beef shank recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It's a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece!