Oven-baked beef with vegetable sauce

Oven-Baked Beef Shank with Vegetable Sauce

Welcome to the delicious world of cooking! Today, I propose we prepare together a recipe for oven-baked beef shank, accompanied by a savory vegetable sauce. This recipe stands out with its rich flavors and varied textures, perfect for a festive meal or a family dinner. This dish will not only impress your guests but also create unforgettable moments around the table. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 piece of boneless beef shank (approximately 3 kg, adjust according to the number of people)
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 1 large green onion, chopped
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1-2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- a few pieces of pork fat
- 100 g butter
- 600 ml white wine (or red, depending on preference)
- salt and pepper to taste
- water (enough to cover the meat)

The Beginning of the Culinary Journey

Oven-baked beef shank is a traditional recipe found in many cultures, often symbolizing moments of celebration and family gatherings. Slow-cooked beef becomes extremely tender and flavorful, while the vegetable sauce adds an extra layer of taste. Let’s not forget that baking gives the meat a delicious crust while keeping it juicy.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by preheating the oven to 180-200°C. In a large baking dish, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the piece of beef shank. Brown the meat on all sides to form a golden crust that will help retain the juices inside.

2. Deglazing with wine:
After the meat is evenly browned, deglaze with 600 ml of white wine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the flavors concentrate.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
While the meat is cooking, peel and dice the carrots, celery, green onion, tomatoes, and potatoes. These vegetables not only add flavor but also color and texture to the sauce.

4. Assembling:
Place the diced vegetables around the meat in the dish. Add a few pieces of pork fat for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add enough water to cover the meat halfway.

5. Baking:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 3 hours, turning the meat every 30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure even cooking and to prevent the meat from drying out.

6. Checking the dish:
After 3 hours, check the meat. It should be extremely tender and easily fall apart. Remove the dish from the oven and let the meat rest for a few minutes.

7. Preparing the sauce:
Separately, take the vegetables and juices from the dish and place them in a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth sauce, which should be slightly thinner than cream. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little cornstarch dissolved in water.

8. Serving:
Slice the beef shank and place it on a platter. Cover with the vegetable sauce. I recommend serving this dish with sides such as oven-baked potatoes with wine and rosemary, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget a glass of red wine to further enrich the culinary experience.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the meat: Make sure to choose a quality beef shank, preferably from a trusted supplier. Well-aged meat will bring extra flavor.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas, depending on your preferences. Also, try swapping the white wine for a red for a different flavor.
- Slow cooking: Slow cooking is key for tender meat. Don’t rush the process; patience pays off!
- Combinations: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as herb rice, steamed vegetables, or a crudité salad.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef shank is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Adding vegetables not only enriches the flavor but also provides fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork instead of beef? Yes, this recipe can be adapted using pork, but the cooking time may change.
2. What wine is recommended? White wine is ideal for maintaining a delicate flavor, but if you prefer a stronger taste, red wine is an excellent choice.
3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, the oven-baked beef shank can be cooked a day ahead, and the flavors will intensify. Reheat in the oven at low temperature before serving.

I hope this recipe for oven-baked beef shank with vegetable sauce becomes one of your family’s favorites! Don’t forget to share with us how the cooking went and to leave images of the final result. Enjoy your meal!