When it comes to steak, many of us tend to gravitate towards the more popular cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon. However, there’s a lesser-known cut that’s been gaining attention in recent years: the shank steak. But is shank steak any good? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of shank steak, exploring its characteristics, cooking methods, and whether it’s worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
What is Shank Steak?
Shank steak comes from the leg of the cow, specifically from the area between the knee and the ankle. This cut is known for its tough, chewy texture due to the high concentration of connective tissue. However, this toughness can also be a blessing in disguise, as it makes the meat incredibly flavorful and tender when cooked low and slow.
Types of Shank Steak
There are two main types of shank steak: beef shank and lamb shank. Beef shank is the more commonly consumed of the two and is often used in soups, stews, and braises. Lamb shank, on the other hand, is a popular choice for slow-cooked dishes like stews and curries.
Beef Shank Cuts
Beef shank can be further divided into two sub-cuts: the foreshank and the hindshank. The foreshank is the upper portion of the leg, while the hindshank is the lower portion. The foreshank is typically more tender and has a milder flavor, making it a popular choice for slow-cooked dishes.
Cooking Methods for Shank Steak
Due to its tough texture, shank steak requires slow and gentle cooking to break down the connective tissue. Here are some popular cooking methods for shank steak:
Braising
Braising is a cooking method that involves cooking the meat in liquid over low heat for an extended period. This method is perfect for shank steak, as it allows the connective tissue to break down and the meat to become tender and flavorful.
How to Braise Shank Steak
To braise shank steak, start by seasoning the meat with your desired spices and herbs. Then, heat some oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the meat until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside. Add some aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until they’re softened. Add your liquid of choice (such as stock or wine) to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the meat to the pot, cover it with a lid, and transfer it to the oven. Braise the meat for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and falls apart easily.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is another great way to cook shank steak. This method involves cooking the meat in a slow cooker or Instant Pot over low heat for an extended period.
How to Slow Cook Shank Steak
To slow cook shank steak, start by seasoning the meat with your desired spices and herbs. Then, place the meat in a slow cooker or Instant Pot and add your desired liquid and aromatics. Cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours, or until it’s tender and falls apart easily.
Benefits of Shank Steak
Despite its tough texture, shank steak has several benefits that make it a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Here are some of the benefits of shank steak:
Affordability
Shank steak is generally cheaper than other cuts of steak, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Comparison of Shank Steak Prices
| Cut of Steak | Price per Pound |
| — | — |
| Shank Steak | $3-$5 |
| Ribeye | $8-$12 |
| Sirloin | $6-$10 |
| Filet Mignon | $15-$20 |
Flavor
Shank steak is incredibly flavorful due to its high concentration of connective tissue. When cooked low and slow, the meat becomes tender and falls apart easily, releasing a rich, beefy flavor.
Nutrition
Shank steak is a lean cut of meat, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their fat intake. It’s also high in protein and low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Conclusion
So, is shank steak any good? The answer is a resounding yes. Despite its tough texture, shank steak is a flavorful and nutritious cut of meat that’s perfect for slow-cooked dishes. With its affordability, rich flavor, and numerous health benefits, shank steak is a great addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, shank steak is definitely worth trying.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, shank steak is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and numerous health benefits, it’s a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply want to add some variety to your culinary repertoire, shank steak is definitely worth considering. So next time you’re at the butcher or grocery store, be sure to give shank steak a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
What is Shank Steak?
Shank steak is a cut of beef that comes from the leg of the cow. It is a tougher cut of meat, which makes it more challenging to cook, but also more flavorful. The shank is a working muscle, which means it has a lot of connective tissue that needs to be broken down in order to make it tender.
Shank steak is often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts of beef, but it has a lot to offer. It is rich in protein and low in fat, making it a great option for those looking for a leaner cut of meat. Additionally, shank steak is often less expensive than other cuts of beef, making it a great value for those on a budget.
How Do You Cook Shank Steak?
Cooking shank steak requires some patience and creativity. Because it is a tougher cut of meat, it needs to be cooked low and slow in order to break down the connective tissue. This can be done through braising, which involves cooking the steak in liquid over low heat for an extended period of time.
There are many different ways to cook shank steak, including slow cooking, pressure cooking, and oven roasting. The key is to cook it low and slow, allowing the connective tissue to break down and the meat to become tender. You can also add flavorings such as herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the steak.
What Are the Benefits of Eating Shank Steak?
Eating shank steak has several benefits. Because it is a leaner cut of meat, it is lower in fat and calories than other cuts of beef. This makes it a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, shank steak is rich in protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
Shank steak is also a great source of iron, which is essential for healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency is a common problem, especially in women, so eating shank steak can help to boost iron levels. Additionally, shank steak contains other essential nutrients such as zinc and B vitamins.
How Does Shank Steak Compare to Other Cuts of Beef?
Shank steak is often compared to other tougher cuts of beef, such as chuck and brisket. While these cuts are similar in texture and flavor, shank steak is often more tender and flavorful. This is because the shank is a working muscle, which means it has a lot of connective tissue that needs to be broken down in order to make it tender.
In terms of flavor, shank steak is often described as rich and beefy, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. This is due to the fact that the shank is a working muscle, which means it has a lot of marbling (fat) throughout. This marbling adds flavor and tenderness to the steak.
Can You Grill Shank Steak?
While it is possible to grill shank steak, it is not the most recommended cooking method. This is because shank steak is a tougher cut of meat, and grilling can make it even tougher. Grilling involves high heat and quick cooking, which can cause the connective tissue in the steak to contract and become even tougher.
If you do want to grill shank steak, it’s best to cook it low and slow over indirect heat. This will help to break down the connective tissue and make the steak more tender. You can also marinate the steak before grilling to add flavor and tenderize it.
Is Shank Steak Expensive?
Shank steak is often less expensive than other cuts of beef, making it a great value for those on a budget. This is because it is a tougher cut of meat, which means it is often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts. However, the price of shank steak can vary depending on the location and the quality of the meat.
In general, shank steak is a great option for those looking for a affordable and flavorful cut of beef. It’s perfect for slow cooking, braising, or oven roasting, and can be used in a variety of dishes such as stews, soups, and casseroles.
Where Can You Buy Shank Steak?
Shank steak can be found in most supermarkets and butcher shops. It’s often labeled as “beef shank” or “shank steak,” and can be found in the meat department. If you’re having trouble finding shank steak, you can also try looking for it at specialty butcher shops or online meat markets.
When purchasing shank steak, look for meat that is fresh and has a good color. Avoid meat that is pale or has a lot of visible fat. You can also ask the butcher for recommendations on how to cook the steak and what recipes to use.