Cooking beef shank in the oven is a simple but delicious way to make this tender cut of meat. Though beef shank can be cooked in a variety of different ways, the oven provides an easy, reliable method to get consistently cooked shank every time. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide to cooking beef shank in the oven, from preparation and cooking to testing the doneness, serving and more.
What You Will Need to Prepare Beef Shank
Before getting started, you will need to gather your ingredients and equipment. For this recipe, you will need the beef shank, oil, salt and pepper, herbs and spices (if desired), a baking dish, aluminum foil, baking paper, and an oven thermometer to test internal temperature (optional).
It is important to ensure that the beef shank is of good quality. Look for a cut that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help to keep the meat tender and juicy during cooking. Additionally, make sure to season the beef shank generously with salt and pepper before cooking, as this will help to bring out the flavor of the meat.
Preparing the Beef Shank for Cooking
Preparing the beef shank for cooking is an important step as it helps to ensure even cooking. Begin by removing any excess fat and sinew from the meat. Then, season the beef shank as desired with salt, pepper, herbs and spices. Drizzle with oil to ensure a golden, crisp outer layer once cooked.
Once the beef shank is prepared, it can be cooked in a variety of ways. It can be roasted in the oven, slow cooked in a crockpot, or grilled over an open flame. Whichever method you choose, make sure to cook the beef shank until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F. This will ensure that the beef shank is cooked through and safe to eat.
Roasting the Beef Shank in the Oven
Once prepared, preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking dish with a layer of parchment paper followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the beef shank into the baking dish and bake in preheated oven for an hour, then reduce heat to 300°F and continue baking for two to three hours more until the internal temperature reaches 160°F as tested with an oven thermometer.
When the beef shank is finished cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. Serve the beef shank with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Basting the Beef Shank During Cooking
At regular intervals throughout cooking, open the oven door and baste the beef shank with any fat or juices that may have collected at the bottom of the baking dish. This will help to keep the beef shank from drying out during cooking.
It is important to use a spoon or baster to evenly distribute the fat and juices over the beef shank. This will ensure that the beef shank is cooked evenly and that it is not dried out in any one area. Additionally, basting the beef shank will help to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Testing the Doneness of the Beef Shank
The most reliable way to test for doneness is to use an oven thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and wait several seconds for a reading. When the internal temperature reaches 160°F, then the beef shank is done.
It is important to note that the temperature of the beef shank will continue to rise after it is removed from the oven. This is known as carryover cooking and can result in the beef shank becoming overcooked if left to rest for too long. To avoid this, it is best to remove the beef shank from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 155°F and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting and Serving the Cooked Beef Shank
Once cooked, remove beef shank from oven and allow to rest in baking dish for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows juices and flavors to be reabsorbed into the meat and will produce a superior texture and flavor. Serve immediately.
Variations on Oven-Cooked Beef Shank
You can vary your oven-cooked beef shank by adding additional ingredients or flavoring to suit your preferences. Try experimenting with different herbs and spices or adding vegetables such as carrots and potatoes for a hearty meal. You can also amend cooking time depending on whether you prefer your beef shank to be rare, medium or well done.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Beef Shank
To get perfectly cooked beef shank every time, there are several tips and tricks you can use. Be sure to remove any excess fat from the beef shank before cooking. Also, season the beef shank with salt, pepper, herbs and spices to add flavor. Regularly baste the beef shank during cooking to ensure it doesn’t dry out. And lastly, use an oven thermometer to test for doneness before serving.
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