Beef with garlic sauce

Beef shank with garlic sauce - a recipe that will transform any meal into a feast of flavors and textures! This dish offers not only tender and juicy meat but also a flavorful sauce that will add a special touch to any dish. Let's explore together every detail of this recipe to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef shank (ideally from a young animal for a more tender texture)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 10 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 4 tablespoons spicy ketchup (choose a quality ketchup for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably of the best quality)
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it on hand)
- salt, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- oil (olive or sunflower)

Brief history of the recipe
Beef with garlic sauce is a classic recipe loved by many cultures, each having its unique version. Garlic is a universal ingredient, used for centuries not only for flavor but also for its beneficial properties. This recipe combines tradition with a simple yet sophisticated dish, ideal for any occasion.

Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing the meat. Choose fresh beef shank from a reliable source. The entire cooking experience will depend on the quality of the ingredients. Cut the shank into slices about 1-2 cm thick and use a meat mallet to gently pound them, making them more tender. After pounding, cut each slice into pieces of 3-4 cm.

Cooking the meat
In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the pieces of meat and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This step is crucial as it seals in the juices of the meat and gives it a delicious flavor.

Add the finely chopped onions and sliced garlic cloves. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its aroma.

Boiling
Pour 2 liters of warm water over the meat and vegetables. Cover the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. It is essential to skim the soup whenever necessary to achieve a clear and tasty sauce.

At this point, you can take care of other preparations or relax, knowing that your meal is cooking slowly, releasing delicious aromas.

Adding the spices
After the meat has simmered for 1 hour and 30 minutes, mix the ketchup, paprika, thyme, and salt in a small bowl. Ensure all ingredients are well combined, then add them to the pot, stirring gently to distribute evenly.

Cover the pot again and let it simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the meat becomes extremely tender. Finally, when the sauce has reduced slightly, add the chopped parsley and turn off the heat.

Serving
This beef shank with garlic sauce is perfect alongside creamy mashed potatoes and pickled peppers, which add a crunchy note and a contrast of flavors. Offer a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for an elegant look and an additional aroma.

Serving suggestions
For a complete culinary experience, you can accompany this dish with a glass of bold red wine that will highlight the flavors of the meat and sauce. Additionally, a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables would add a touch of freshness to your meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Sure! You can opt for pork or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili peppers or chili sauce to the spice mix.

3. Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef shank with garlic sauce a day in advance, and the flavor will become even more intense.

4. What other side dishes pair well?
This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

5. How long does it keep in the fridge?
The recipe can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the taste will be just as good!

Nutritional benefits
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, essential for overall health. Garlic, besides its aromatic taste, is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Vegetarian option
If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with large mushrooms (for example, portobello mushrooms) and use vegetable broth instead of water. This will bring to life a recipe that is just as tasty and full of flavors!

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Try this beef shank with garlic sauce recipe, enjoy every step of the process, and savor the final result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!