Beef Shanks Continental

Beef Shanks Continental Recipe | Country of Origin USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Shanks Continental is a classic, hearty dish that brings the rich flavors of beef, vegetables, and herbs together in a deliciously slow-cooked meal. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavor that can only be achieved through slow cooking. The beef shanks are tenderized to perfection, absorbing the aromatic blend of seasonings and vegetables, making this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

The origins of Beef Shanks Continental can be traced back to European cuisine, where slow-cooked meats were a staple. This method of cooking, using tough cuts of meat and transforming them into tender, flavorful dishes, was a practical and economical choice. Over time, the recipe has evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients and techniques, making it a beloved dish in households around the world.

Ingredients

6 pieces of beef shank cross cuts (about 4 lb or 1.81 kg)
0.5 cup of flour
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
2 tbsp of oil
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of crushed basil leaves
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
0.75 cup of chopped onion
1 clove of minced garlic
2 tbsp of tomato paste or catsup
1 cup of sherry
0.5 cup of water
0.5 cup of sliced carrots
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp of grated lemon peel
3 cups of hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Dredge the shanks in flour.
Brown the shanks on both sides in hot butter and oil in a large heavy skillet.
Add salt, basil leaves, pepper, onion, and garlic.
Cover and cook on low heat for 10 minutes.
Stir tomato paste into sherry.
Add the mixture to the skillet with water; cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Skim off excess fat.
Add carrots, parsley, and lemon peel to the skillet; continue to cook for 10 minutes longer or until the carrots are tender.
Serve the shanks and sauce over beds of fluffy rice.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking or substituting red wine for sherry for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef shanks are perfectly cooked, it's essential to brown them well before slow cooking. This step adds depth to the flavor. Additionally, maintaining a low and steady simmer is crucial for achieving tender meat. If the liquid reduces too much during cooking, add a bit more water or broth to keep the meat moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef shanks over a bed of fluffy, hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad complements the richness of the dish perfectly.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking in a covered skillet on the stovetop is the traditional method, but this recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker or an oven-braised approach, depending on your preference.

Ingredient Substitutions

If sherry isn't available, a good quality red wine or beef broth can be used as a substitute. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in a low oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serving the beef shanks on a platter surrounded by the rice makes for an inviting presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef shanks. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if necessary to keep the meat moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Shanks Continental, including the bed of rice, contains approximately 600-700 calories. The exact number can vary based on the size of the beef shanks and the amount of cooking fat used.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the flour used for dredging and the vegetables. The serving of hot cooked rice adds carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal. For a lower carbohydrate option, you can serve the beef shanks with cauliflower rice.

Fats

Beef shanks are a leaner cut of meat, but the recipe includes margarine and oil for cooking, contributing to the fat content. Skimming off excess fat after cooking helps reduce the overall fat content, making this dish a healthier option.

Proteins

Beef shanks are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This dish provides a substantial amount of protein, making it an ideal meal for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the inclusion of vegetables like carrots and parsley. Beef is also a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and overall health.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the flour) and potentially dairy (if margarine contains milk products). Those with allergies should adjust the recipe accordingly or seek alternative ingredients.

Summary

Beef Shanks Continental is a balanced meal offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a hearty dinner.

Summary

Beef Shanks Continental is a timeless recipe that combines the rich flavors of beef, vegetables, and herbs in a comforting, slow-cooked meal. With its deep nutritional profile and versatile serving options, it's a perfect dish for any occasion, offering a satisfying and hearty meal that's sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Beef Shanks Continental. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a talent for creating delicious dishes that always left us wanting more.

One day, as I sat at her kitchen table watching her work her magic, she pulled out a faded and tattered old recipe card from her collection. It was for Beef Shanks Continental, a dish she had learned to make from a dear friend many years before. As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I could see the passion and love she had for this recipe shining through in her eyes.

I begged her to teach me how to make it, and she smiled warmly, agreeing to show me the ropes. We spent the entire afternoon together, chopping, sautéing, and simmering the ingredients until the house was filled with the mouth-watering aroma of the dish. As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.

Over the years, I continued to make Beef Shanks Continental for my own family, each time adding my own little twist to the recipe. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who all raved about its rich flavors and comforting warmth. It became a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I could always rely on to bring joy and satisfaction to those I loved.

As I grew older, I began to collect recipes from all sorts of sources – cookbooks, magazines, and even the internet. But no matter how many new dishes I learned to make, Beef Shanks Continental remained a favorite among my family and friends. It was a reminder of my grandmother and the love she had passed down to me through her cooking.

Now, as I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing Beef Shanks Continental for yet another gathering of loved ones, I can't help but smile as I remember that first day learning the recipe with my grandmother. The memories of that time spent together, the laughter shared, and the delicious aromas wafting through the air – they all come flooding back to me, filling me with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude.

I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of my family's legacy for generations to come, just as it has been passed down through the years from my grandmother to me. And as I serve it to my guests with pride and love, I can't help but feel a deep connection to the past and a sense of joy in knowing that some things truly do stand the test of time – like a good recipe, made with love and shared with those we hold dear.