Beef shanks are a delicious and often underrated cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection on the grill. With their rich flavor and tender texture, beef shanks are a great option for a summer barbecue or a special occasion dinner. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef shanks on the grill, including preparation, grilling, and serving tips.
Understanding Beef Shanks
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what beef shanks are and how they differ from other cuts of beef. Beef shanks are cut from the leg of the cow, specifically from the area around the knee joint. They are a tougher cut of meat, which makes them perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising or grilling.
Beef shanks are typically sold in two forms: cross-cut beef shanks and beef shank steaks. Cross-cut beef shanks are cut into thick slices, while beef shank steaks are cut into thinner slices. For grilling, we recommend using cross-cut beef shanks, as they are easier to cook evenly.
Benefits of Grilling Beef Shanks
Grilling beef shanks offers several benefits, including:
- Rich flavor: Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the beef shanks, which complements their natural flavor.
- Tender texture: Grilling helps to break down the connective tissues in the beef shanks, making them tender and easy to chew.
- Easy to cook: Grilling beef shanks is a relatively simple process that requires minimal preparation and attention.
Preparing Beef Shanks for Grilling
Before grilling beef shanks, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Trim Excess Fat
Beef shanks can be quite fatty, which can make them difficult to cook evenly. To trim excess fat, use a sharp knife to remove any visible fat from the surface of the beef shanks.
Step 2: Season with Salt and Pepper
Seasoning the beef shanks with salt and pepper is essential to bring out their natural flavor. Use a generous amount of salt and pepper to coat the beef shanks evenly.
Step 3: Marinate (Optional)
Marinating the beef shanks can add extra flavor and tenderize them further. If you choose to marinate, use a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Let the beef shanks marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
Grilling Beef Shanks
Now that the beef shanks are prepared, it’s time to grill them. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Grill the Beef Shanks
Place the beef shanks on the grill and close the lid. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the beef shanks are nicely charred and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 3: Finish with a Glaze (Optional)
If you want to add a sweet and sticky glaze to the beef shanks, now is the time to do it. Use a mixture of barbecue sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard to create a glaze. Brush the glaze onto the beef shanks during the last few minutes of grilling.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Beef shanks are a versatile cut of meat that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving and pairing ideas:
Serving Ideas
- Serve the beef shanks with a side of grilled vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Serve with a side of sautéed spinach or kale.
Pairing Ideas
- Pair the beef shanks with a rich and full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
- Pair with a crisp and refreshing beer, like a pale ale or lager.
- Pair with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind when grilling beef shanks:
Tips
- Make sure to cook the beef shanks to the recommended internal temperature of 160°F to ensure food safety.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef shanks.
- Don’t press down on the beef shanks with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make them tough.
Variations
- Try grilling beef shanks with a Korean-inspired marinade, featuring ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Try grilling beef shanks with a Mediterranean-inspired marinade, featuring ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
- Try grilling beef shanks with a spicy marinade, featuring ingredients like hot sauce and chili flakes.
| Internal Temperature | Level of Doneness |
|---|---|
| 120°F – 130°F | Rare |
| 130°F – 135°F | Medium-rare |
| 140°F – 145°F | Medium |
| 150°F – 155°F | Medium-well |
| 160°F – 170°F | Well-done |
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to grill beef shanks to perfection and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Remember to always cook the beef shanks to the recommended internal temperature to ensure food safety. Happy grilling!
What are beef shanks and why are they ideal for grilling?
Beef shanks are a cut of beef taken from the leg area, typically tougher and more flavorful than other cuts. They are ideal for grilling because they become tender and juicy when cooked low and slow, allowing the connective tissues to break down and infuse the meat with rich flavors.
When choosing beef shanks for grilling, look for cuts that are about 1-2 inches thick and have a good balance of meat and bone. You can also ask your butcher to trim any excess fat or connective tissue to ensure even cooking.
What type of grill is best suited for cooking beef shanks?
A charcoal or gas grill with a lid is best suited for cooking beef shanks. The lid allows for even heat distribution and helps to trap the smoke and flavors, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. If you have a charcoal grill, you can also add wood chips or chunks to the coals to infuse a smoky flavor into the meat.
When setting up your grill, make sure to preheat it to a medium-low heat, around 275-300°F (135-150°C). This will help to cook the beef shanks slowly and evenly, preventing them from burning or charring on the outside before they are fully cooked on the inside.
How do I prepare beef shanks for grilling?
To prepare beef shanks for grilling, start by seasoning them with a dry rub or marinade. You can use a store-bought or homemade rub, or create your own marinade using a combination of olive oil, acid (such as vinegar or citrus juice), and spices. Let the beef shanks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Next, pat the beef shanks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help to create a crispy crust on the outside of the meat when it’s grilled. You can also brush the grates with oil to prevent the meat from sticking and to add extra flavor.
How long does it take to cook beef shanks on the grill?
The cooking time for beef shanks on the grill will depend on the size and thickness of the cuts, as well as the heat of your grill. As a general rule, you can expect to cook beef shanks for about 2-3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160-170°F (71-77°C).
It’s also important to let the beef shanks rest for about 10-15 minutes after grilling, before slicing or serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Can I cook beef shanks on a grill without a lid?
While it’s possible to cook beef shanks on a grill without a lid, it’s not recommended. The lid helps to trap the heat and smoke, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Without a lid, the heat may not be evenly distributed, and the meat may not cook as slowly or evenly.
If you don’t have a grill with a lid, you can try using a foil pan or a grill mat to cover the beef shanks and trap the heat. However, this may not be as effective as using a grill with a lid, and the results may vary.
How do I know when beef shanks are cooked to perfection?
Beef shanks are cooked to perfection when they reach an internal temperature of 160-170°F (71-77°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, or check for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it slides in easily, the meat is cooked.
Another way to check for doneness is to look for a rich, caramelized crust on the outside of the meat. This is a sign that the meat has been cooked slowly and evenly, and that the connective tissues have broken down to create a tender and flavorful dish.
Can I serve beef shanks with a sauce or gravy?
Beef shanks can be served with a variety of sauces or gravies to add extra flavor and moisture. Some popular options include a rich demiglace, a tangy BBQ sauce, or a creamy mushroom gravy. You can also serve the beef shanks with a side of braised vegetables or mashed potatoes to soak up the juices.
When serving beef shanks with a sauce or gravy, try to spoon some of the sauce over the meat during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling. This will help to glaze the meat and add extra flavor to the dish. You can also serve the sauce on the side, allowing each guest to help themselves.