Cut Beef Shank
Cut Beef Shank
About The Shank Cut
The beef shank is a flavorful cut taken from the leg portion of the cow, either front (foreshank) or rear (hindshank). Because this area is heavily exercised, the meat is lean with abundant connective tissue and collagen. While too tough for quick-cooking methods, the shank becomes incredibly tender and rich when braised or slow-cooked. It’s a staple in stews, soups, and bone broth due to its deep flavor and marrow-filled bones. This economical cut is a favorite in cuisines around the world for its heartiness and rustic appeal.
Key Features:
Cut Location: Lower leg portion of the cow (front and rear legs)
Texture: Lean and tough with lots of connective tissue; rich in collagen
Flavor: Deep, beefy flavor that intensifies with slow cooking
Cooking Methods: Best suited for braising, stewing, pressure cooking, or slow roasting
Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, iron, and collagen; marrow is nutrient-dense
Uses: Excellent for soups, Osso Buco, bone broth, or slow-cooked dishes
Common Cuts from the Beef Shank
Foreshank – From the front leg; used in soups and slow-cooked dishes.
Hindshank – From the rear leg; slightly larger and often cross-cut for presentation.
Center-Cut Shank Steaks (Osso Buco) – Cross-cut with bone-in; known for tender texture and marrow-rich bone.
Boneless Shank – Lean and great for grinding or stews.
Shank Bones for Broth– Meaty marrow bones perfect for making stock or bone broth.
Delicious Recipes For Beef Shank
Ingredients: Cross-cut shanks, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, white wine, beef stock
Instructions: Brown shanks, then braise with vegetables and liquid for 2–3 hours until fork-tender.
Ingredients: Cubed shank meat, potatoes, carrots, onion, herbs, beef broth
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Ingredients: Shank bones, apple cider vinegar, onion, garlic, bay leaves
Instructions: Roast bones, then simmer with water and aromatics for 12–24 hours for rich, nutrient-packed broth.
Ingredients: Beef shank pieces, curry paste, coconut milk, chili, ginger
Instructions: Sear meat, simmer with curry ingredients until tender and serve with rice or naan.
Ingredients: Shank meat, onion, garlic, vegetables, herbs
Instructions: Cook in a pressure cooker for 45–60 minutes for a hearty, flavorful soup in less time.