Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook beef shank? Look no further than your Instant Pot!
This versatile kitchen appliance can help you create a fall-off-the-bone tender beef shank in no time. But how long should you cook it for?
In this article, we’ll explore the different cooking times and methods for beef shank in an Instant Pot, as well as some tasty recipe ideas to try out.
So, grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
How Long To Cook Beef Shank In Instant Pot?
The cooking time for beef shank in an Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook it on high pressure for 35-40 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10-15 minutes. This should result in a perfectly tender and flavorful beef shank.
It’s important to note that searing the beef shank before pressure cooking can add extra flavor and texture to the final dish. This can be done using the sauté function on the Instant Pot before switching to pressure cooking mode.
Another factor to consider is the liquid used in the recipe. Beef broth, red wine, and crushed tomatoes are common ingredients that can add depth and richness to the dish. It’s important to make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to fully submerge the beef shank for even cooking.
What Is Beef Shank?
Beef shank is a cut of meat that comes from the leg portion of a cow or bull. It is located just above the knee or hock and is cut horizontally into thin slices. This area of the animal is full of connective tissue, making the meat quite tough and sinewy. Due to its low-fat content, beef shank is often used to prepare very lean ground beef or as an ingredient in soups and stews. It is also an ideal cut to use for beef bourguignon or osso buco because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked for a long time in moist heat. The shank’s fat content is almost negligible, with one pound piece of beef shank containing only about one ounce of fat. Since cows either stay standing or keep walking for most of each day, the muscles around the legs don’t develop much fat and are lean and sinewy. A piece of beef shank comes from each leg of the steer, meaning that each cow yields four pieces of shank. Overall, beef shank is a flavorful and nutritious cut of meat that can be transformed into a delicious meal with the right cooking techniques.
Why Use An Instant Pot?
There are many reasons why an Instant Pot is a great addition to any kitchen, especially when it comes to cooking beef shank. First and foremost, an Instant Pot drastically cuts down on cooking time, making it perfect for busy individuals who want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The high pressure and steam used in an Instant Pot also help to develop flavors quickly, resulting in a more flavorful and tender beef shank compared to traditional cooking methods.
Additionally, the Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that can perform multiple functions, including sautéing, steaming, and slow cooking. This means that you can use it for all of your cooking needs without having to purchase multiple appliances that take up valuable counter space.
Another benefit of using an Instant Pot is that it is easy to use and requires minimal monitoring. Simply set the desired cooking time and let the Instant Pot do the rest. This frees up time for you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while your meal cooks.
Preparing The Beef Shank For Cooking
Before cooking the beef shank in an Instant Pot, it’s important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat from the shank, as this can result in a greasy and unappetizing final dish. Then, season the shank generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Some recipes may call for dredging the beef shank in a seasoned flour mixture before cooking. This can help create a crispy and flavorful crust on the meat, but it’s not always necessary.
If desired, you can also sear the beef shank in a hot skillet or using the sauté function on the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. This can help develop a rich flavor and caramelized exterior on the meat. Be sure to brown all sides of the shank evenly for the best results.
Once the beef shank is prepared, it can be added to the Instant Pot along with any other ingredients called for in the recipe. It’s important to make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to fully submerge the meat, as this will ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Cooking Times For Beef Shank In An Instant Pot
When cooking beef shank in an Instant Pot, the cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the meat. For a 1-2 inch thick beef shank, it is recommended to pressure cook on high for 35-40 minutes. However, for thicker cuts of beef shank, it may be necessary to increase the cooking time by an additional 10-15 minutes.
After pressure cooking, it’s important to allow for a natural release of pressure for at least 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This helps to prevent overcooking and ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy.
It’s also important to note that the searing process before pressure cooking can add an additional 6-10 minutes to the overall cooking time. This step can be skipped if desired, but it can enhance the flavor and texture of the beef shank.
Natural Release Vs. Quick Release
Once the beef shank is done pressure cooking, you have the option of using either a natural release or a quick release to release the pressure inside the Instant Pot.
A natural release is when you allow the Instant Pot to cool down on its own without any intervention. This process can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes, depending on what you have in your Instant Pot. During this time, the pressure inside will gradually decrease, and the float valve will drop down on its own.
On the other hand, a quick release is when you manually release the pressure by turning the pressure valve from sealing to venting. This allows the steam to escape quickly, and the float valve will drop down almost immediately.
When deciding between natural release vs. quick release, it’s important to consider the type of food you are cooking. For tougher cuts of meat like beef shank, a natural release is recommended as it allows the meat to continue cooking in its own juices and become more tender. Quick release can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
However, for delicate foods like fish or vegetables, a quick release is preferred to prevent overcooking and maintain their texture.
Recipe Ideas For Beef Shank In An Instant Pot
Beef shank is a versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in a variety of ways in an Instant Pot. Here are some recipe ideas to inspire your next meal:
1. Beef Shank Stew: This classic recipe involves searing the beef shank and then cooking it with aromatic vegetables, beef broth, and red wine. The result is a hearty and comforting stew that is perfect for colder weather.
2. Beef Shank Tacos: Shred the cooked beef shank and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.
3. Beef Shank Curry: Add curry powder, coconut milk, and vegetables to the Instant Pot along with the beef shank for a flavorful and exotic dish.
4. Beef Shank Pho: Combine the cooked beef shank with rice noodles, bean sprouts, and herbs in a savory broth for a delicious Vietnamese-inspired meal.
5. Beef Shank Ragu: Simmer the cooked beef shank in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and herbs for a rich and satisfying pasta sauce.
No matter how you prepare it, beef shank in an Instant Pot is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your new favorite recipe.
