Maybe you’ve tried it. Maybe you haven’t. Either way, the beef shin is a hidden gem. This marvellous cut, also referred to as beef shank, offers a delightful combination of deep flavours and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. In this article, we will explore the wonders of beef shin, share a tantalising slow-cooked recipe, and discuss the advantages of choosing grass-fed beef. Let’s get to it.
What Is Beef Shin?
Beef shin, often called beef shank, is a portion of meat located in the lower part of a cow’s leg. Its rich marbling and connective tissues make it a cut renowned for its robust flavours and incredible texture. When cooked slowly, beef shin transforms into a succulent, fork-tender centrepiece, making it a perfect choice for stews and braises.
How to Cook Beef Shin
The key to extracting the full potential of beef shin lies in the art of slow cooking. By adopting a ‘low and slow’ approach, you allow the meat to gradually break down, resulting in an explosion of tender, juicy bites that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you choose to braise it in a luscious sauce or simmer it to perfection, the end result is a culinary masterpiece that promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience for your family or guests.
Here are some pro tips to help you achieve beef shin perfection.
- Choose the Right Cooking Method: Beef shin lends itself beautifully to braising and simmering due to its rich marbling and connective tissues. These methods ensure that the meat becomes incredibly tender and infused with the flavours of the accompanying ingredients.
- Season and Marinate: Before embarking on the slow-cooking journey, take a moment to season the beef shin with salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavour, consider marinating the meat overnight in a mixture of herbs, garlic, and your preferred liquid, such as red wine or beef stock.
- Brown for Flavour: Before braising or simmering, sear the beef shin on all sides in a hot pan. This process not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a depth of flavour to the final dish. The caramelisation of the meat’s surface creates a delicious crust that amplifies the overall taste profile.
- Choose the Perfect Liquid: When selecting the liquid for braising or simmering, consider using flavorful options such as red wine, ale, or beef stock. These liquids work in harmony with the beef shin, imparting their unique characteristics and enriching the final dish.
- Add Aromatic Herbs and Spices: To elevate the flavours of the beef shin, incorporate aromatic herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and garlic all work wonders in enhancing the natural richness of the meat. Tie the herbs together in a bouquet garni or add them directly to the cooking liquid for maximum infusion.
- Patience Is Key: Slow cooking requires patience. Set the temperature to low and allow the beef shin to simmer gently or braise for an extended period. This slow and steady process ensures that the meat becomes incredibly tender, breaking down the tough fibres and resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Vegetables for Depth: While the beef shin takes centre stage, don’t forget to add a medley of vegetables to the cooking pot. Carrots, parsnips, and celery work exceptionally well, adding distinct flavours and depth to the overall dish. The vegetables complement the meat and provide a delightful textural contrast.
Remember, the process of slow-cooking beef shin on the bone is as important as the destination. Take your time and let the flavours meld together. The end result is worth it.
Now that you have these pro tips at your fingertips, it’s time to embark on your slow-cooking adventure with beef shin.
Choose Grass-Fed Beef Shin on the Bone
When selecting beef shin, grass-fed varieties take the culinary experience to a whole new level. Grass-fed beef is derived from cows that roamed freely, grazing on natural grass and forage. This natural diet not only enhances the overall taste and tenderness of the meat but also offers several health benefits. Grass-fed beef is typically lower in fat, higher in omega-3 fatty acids, and richer in antioxidants, making it a wholesome choice for conscious consumers.
Recipe: Slow-Cooked Beef Shin in Ale
Imagine a hearty dish that combines the earthy flavours of beef shin with the rich depth of ale. Picture tender meat infused with the aromatic herbs of rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Envision a medley of vibrant vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and celery, enhancing the overall harmony of flavours. This slow-cooked beef shin in ale recipe is a true showstopper, perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party. It’s comfort food elevated to all new heights.
Slow-cooked beef shin in ale
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 kg Grass-fed beef shin (Bone in)
- 750 ml Bottle beer
- 250 ml Beef Broth
- 200 g Shallots (coarsely chopped)
- 2 Celery sticks (coarsely chopped)
- 2 Parsnips (coarsely chopped)
- 2 Carrots (coarsely chopped)
- 1 Bay leaf (fresh)
- 1 Fresh rosemary (sprig)
- 1 Fresh thyme (sprig)
- 1 Marjoram (sprig)
- Cornflour (Optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 140°C. Put the oil in a large flameproof casserole with a tight-fitting lid over a medium heat. Season and add the beef. Brown on all sides, then add the beer and enough stock to reach three-quarters of the way up the sides of the casserole dish.
- Bring to the boil, then add the shallots, celery, parsnips and carrots along with the bay leaf, rosemary, thyme and marjoram (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with the lid and bake for 4-5 hours (see tip). When it’s ready, the meat will be tender and falling from the bone (check it after 3 hours to see how it’s getting along). Remove the herb sprigs and scatter with fresh thyme leaves to serve. The cooking liquid will be quite thin – to thicken it, remove the beef and rest on a plate, then rapidly boil the liquid on the hob for a few minutes, or stir through a little cornflour dissolved in some of the liquid. Be careful not to break up the veg.
Savour the Delights of Grass-Fed Beef Shin
Elevate your culinary adventures with this tantalising cut, whether it’s a cosy family dinner or an elegant soirée. We take pride in offering top-quality grass-fed beef shin, sourced from trusted suppliers. Visit our website today, and with just a few clicks, you can have this culinary treasure delivered straight to your doorstep. Embrace the flavours, enjoy the convenience, and savour every succulent bite.
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