Easy Beef Shank Stew Recipe
A comforting and hearty beef shank stew, perfect for family dinners, infused with rich flavors and spices, and made easy using an Instant Pot.
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty beef shank stew. This dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, as it fills your home with the mesmerizing aromas of spices and savory goodness. What makes this stew special is not just its rich flavor but also the ease with which it comes together, especially when you use a handy Instant Pot. If you enjoy tender, flavorful meat and savory vegetables, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. For those looking for more beef recipes, consider trying out this savory beef stew recipe that combines different techniques for a delightful meal.
Why make this recipe
Why will you love this dish? Beef shank stew is a unique fusion of flavors and textures that provides comfort and warms you from the inside out. It’s budget-friendly, as beef shank is generally an affordable cut, and you can easily serve a crowd with one pot. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. This is especially perfect for weeknight dinners or on cold days when you crave something hearty and warm.
How to make Beef Shank Stew Recipe
Preparing your beef shank stew begins with a straightforward method that yields delicious results. The cooking process is as follows: first, brown the beef, then sauté the vegetables, and combine everything in the Instant Pot for convenient, stress-free cooking. Before we dive into the ingredients, let’s outline the primary steps that make this dish a true masterpiece.
Ingredients
Gather these items for a delicious stew that serves as comfort food at its finest:
- Olive oil: 2 TBS (30 ml)
- Beef shank without bone: 900 g (about 2 lbs)
- Chopped onion: 250 g (about 1 large or 1 cup)
- Garlic cloves, crushed: 3
- Mushrooms, quartered: 250 g (8.8 oz or about 2 cups)
- Tomato passata: 100 g (3.5 oz or about ⅓ cup)
- Beef broth: 600 g (17.6 oz or about 2 cups)
- Curry powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 TBS
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (be careful if your broth is salty)
- Fresh pepper to taste when serving
You can substitute mushrooms with any other vegetable, like carrots or peas, if preferred.
Directions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this wholesome stew:
Brown the Beef: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil, and when hot, place the beef shank in the pot. Brown both sides to a nice golden color, then set aside.
Sauté the Onions: In the remaining oil, add the chopped onion. Sauté until golden and caramelized. If needed, add a bit of water to deglaze the pot.
Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Introduce the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until they are golden.
Spice It Up: Stir in the paprika, curry powder, and salt, ensuring the mushrooms and onions are well coated. Pour in the beef broth and tomato passata, mixing well.
Combine Ingredients: Return the beef shank to the pot, securing it amidst the liquid and veggies. Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 45 minutes.
Shred the Beef: When cooked, remove the beef shank, shred it, and return the meat to the pot.
Thicken the Stew: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook uncovered until the stew thickens to your liking.
Serve and Enjoy: This dish pairs wonderfully with my favorite cauliflower mash, creating a delightful meal.
01Ingredients
Main Ingredients
02Method
- Cooking Instructions
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0 OF 8 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Allow leftover stew to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly.
- 02Per serving: 6g net carbs, 35g protein, 15g fat, 307 calories. Calculated from the ingredient list.
04Nutrition
Per serving- Calories
- 307
- Protein
- 35G
- Net carbs
- 6G
- Fat
- 15G
- Fiber
- 2G
Net carbs are total carbs minus fiber. Numbers are estimates from the ingredients listed.
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How to serve Beef Shank Stew Recipe
To truly elevate your beef shank stew experience, consider lovely presentations and pairings. Serve it hot in deep bowls, topped with fresh pepper and maybe a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish. For sides, hearty bread or cauliflower mash adds a beautiful contrast and makes for the ultimate comfort meal.
How to store
Storing your leftover beef shank stew is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure to do so thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues. Alternatively, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Creative twists can elevate this basic recipe beautifully. Try adding some root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra sweetness. For a spicier kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Vegetarian options like chickpeas can provide a meatless alternative while keeping richness, and those who enjoy international flavors might consider adding a hint of miso for a Japanese spin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best cut of beef for stew?
Beef shank is ideal for a hearty stew due to its gelatin content, which adds body and richness.
2. Can I use my slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Just extend the cooking time to about 8 hours on low in your slow cooker.
3. What can I serve with beef shank stew?
Consider pairing it with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad to balance out the meal.
4. How long does it take to make the stew?
Preparation and cooking time combined usually take about 1.5 hours in the Instant Pot.
Conclusion
In summary, this beef shank stew is a comforting dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your home. For more ideas, check out Old-School Beef Shank Stew – Made Easy in the Slow Cooker and my Keto Beef Stew. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the delightful flavors that come from this timeless meal!
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