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Beef Shank

How to Cook Beef Shank (Tender, Flavorful & Fall-Off-the-Bone Easy)

Learn how to cook beef shank until it's perfectly tender with this easy beginner-friendly recipe. Slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth, this hearty dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef that's perfect for comforting family dinners.

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 –3 lbs about 1–1.4 kg beef shank, cut into thick cross-sections (bone-in is ideal)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to season
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil vegetable or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 carrots chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup 240 ml dry red wine (optional, or substitute extra stock)
  • 3 –4 cups 720–950 ml beef stock, plus more if needed
  • 2 –3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste optional, for depth

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
  • Large skillet (optional, if searing separately)
  • Tongs
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Instant-read meat thermometer (optional)
  • Serving platter or shallow bowls