There’s something truly enriching about the act of slow cooking, especially when it involves a dish as comforting as Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts. Picture this: as I carefully sear the beef, the kitchen fills with the tantalizing aroma of nutty peanuts mingling with the bold essence of coffee, instantly transforming my home into a warm haven. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that honors tradition while introducing a twist of modern flavor.
Whether you’re gathering around the table with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef shanks create a centerpiece that promises to impress. The rich fusion of spices and textures—from the luxurious sauce to the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts—will not only cater to your cravings for comfort food but also bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to share in the feast. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, and truly elevate your home cooking game!
Why Are Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts So Irresistible?
Soul-Warming Comfort: This recipe wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly nights.
Rich, Complex Flavor: The unique blend of coffee and peanuts creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless Elegance: Simple steps lead to an impressive dish, making you the star of the dinner table!
Versatile Variations: Easily modify for nut-free or vegetarian options, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Savory Satisfaction: Experience melt-in-your-mouth beef shanks simmered to fork-tender perfection, topped with a luscious sauce.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a family gathering or an intimate meal, this recipe brings smiles and seconds!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Ingredients
• For the Beef
- Osso buco-cut Angus beef shanks – The star of the dish, providing rich, succulent meat ideal for braising. Note: Seek pieces at least 2 inches thick for perfect tenderness.
- Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the beef.
• For the Sauce
- Peanut oil – Adds a mild richness that complements the beef and helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Whole peeled plum tomatoes – Offers a robust base for the sauce, ensuring a luscious texture.
- Yellow onion – Introduces a sweet, aromatic layer to the dish.
- Fresh ginger slices – Adds warmth and a hint of spice for depth.
- Garlic cloves – Brings a punch of flavor that beautifully elevates the dish.
- Tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor, contributing to a thick, rich sauce.
- Fresno chile – Provides a gentle heat that balances the flavors. Substitution: Omit for less spice.
- Chiles de árbol – Enhances the spice profile. Note: Adjust quantity for personal heat preference.
- Strong-brewed coffee – Infuses a deep, savory note into the dish, making glazed beef shanks with coffee and peanuts unforgettable.
- Water – Adjusts the consistency of the sauce as it braises.
• For the Spices
- Toasted coriander seeds – Imparts a warm, citrusy taste to the sauce.
- Toasted cumin seeds – Adds earthy undertones that enrich the flavor profile.
- Toasted fenugreek seeds – Brings slight sweetness and complexity to the dish.
- Toasted cinnamon stick – Introduces warmth and a unique aroma during cooking.
- Tellicherry peppercorns – Enhances the spice level with high-quality pepper flavor.
• For the Finish
- Creamy peanut butter – Creates a luscious sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Crushed roasted peanuts – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for garnish.
- Finely ground coffee beans – Enhances the coffee notes while providing an extra visual appeal.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – Offers a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the dish.
Make sure you have everything on this list to create a memorable, soul-warming meal! Enjoy the journey of cooking these glazed beef shanks, as they promise an explosion of flavor perfect for any gathering.
How to Make Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts
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Prepare the Beef: Sprinkle the beef shanks generously with kosher salt. Let them rest for 1 hour at room temperature to enhance flavors and ensure a succulent result.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). If you’ve chilled the beef, permit it to sit for 30 minutes before cooking to help it cook evenly.
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Sear Meat: In a roasting pan, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef shanks evenly for about 15-20 minutes, achieving a glorious golden crust. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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Blend Tomatoes: Place the whole peeled plum tomatoes in a blender and process until smooth. This will create a robust and silky sauce base; set aside for later.
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Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and add chopped yellow onion, ginger slices, and minced garlic. Sauté this fragrant mix for about 6-8 minutes, until the onions are translucent and aromatic.
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Cook the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, Fresno chile, and chiles de árbol, cooking until fragrant for about 3 minutes. This infuses the base with a wonderful aroma.
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Add Liquids: Mix in the strong-brewed coffee and pureed tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes. Watch for bubbles to form; this indicates it’s ready for the next step!
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Combine & Braise: Nestle the beef shanks back into the sauce. Add enough water to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Bring everything back to a boil, then cover with foil. Roast in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. Uncover during the last 30 minutes to deepen those rich flavors.
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Rest and Strain: Once done, take the beef shanks out and allow them to rest for about 15 minutes. Strain the braising liquid into a bowl, tossing away the solids.
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Reduce Sauce: In a saucepan, simmer the strained liquid for 15-20 minutes until thickened, whisking in peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
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Warm the Beef: Return the beef shanks to the pan and warm through for an additional 8-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with crushed roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves for an appealing finish.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra crushed peanuts for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this recipe and tailor it to your preferences!
- Heat Adjusted: Omit or reduce chiles for a milder dish that still offers depth without overwhelming spice.
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for a delightful, nut-free creamy touch.
- Vegetarian: Use meaty portobello mushrooms or hearty eggplant as a flavorful substitution for the beef.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in root veggies like carrots or parsnips during the last hour of braising for added sweetness and texture.
- Cooking Liquid Twist: Swap water for hearty red wine to impart richer flavors into the sauce.
- Spicy Glaze: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the glaze to give a smoky punch and additional heat.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in coconut cream or heavy cream just before serving for an extra layer of luxurious richness.
- Herb Infusion: Infuse fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the braising liquid for a fragrant twist that elevates the overall flavor profile.
What to Serve with Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts?
Looking to create a truly memorable meal? Complement those tender beef shanks with sides that enhance their rich, savory flavors!
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Creamy Polenta: The soft, buttery texture of polenta soaks up the luscious sauce, creating a heavenly blend with the beef’s flavors.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and indulgent, these potatoes add a classic comfort element, with garlic cutting through the richness beautifully.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness and slight crunch provide a vibrant contrast to the tender meat and creamy sauce.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, these sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, balancing the dish wonderfully.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A refreshing arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette introduces a peppery bite, starkly contrasting with the beef’s richness.
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Smooth Cabernet Sauvignon: This bold red wine pairs elegantly with the dish, enhancing the complex flavors while adding a sophisticated touch.
Expert Tips for Glazed Beef Shanks
• Hot Oil Matters: Ensure your peanut oil is hot enough before searing the beef; this will enhance flavor and create a beautiful crust.
• Don’t Rush Braising: Allow your glazеd beef shanks to braise for the full 2.5 to 3 hours. Patience is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
• Taste Test First: Always taste the sauce before whisking in the peanut butter to adjust seasoning. You want that perfect balance of flavors.
• Perfect Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, simmer the strained liquid longer to thicken before adding the peanut butter; it should have a luxurious consistency.
• Variations Allowed: Feel free to customize; omit the Fresno chile for a milder dish or try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version of these glazed beef shanks with coffee and peanuts.
Storage Tips for Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts
Fridge: Store leftover glazed beef shanks in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef shanks for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Serving Suggestions: Serve reheated beef shanks over creamy polenta or with crusty bread for a comforting meal that feels freshly made!
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef shanks by seasoning them and letting them marinate in kosher salt up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing their flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics and cook the sauce, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, nestle the beef back in, and braise as instructed. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort, all while ensuring that your meal remains just as delicious and satisfying!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beef shanks for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for osso buco-cut Angus beef shanks that are at least 2 inches thick. This thickness ensures even cooking and that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all adore. You want to avoid any pieces with dark spots or a greenish hue; they’re signs of age and potential spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Refrigerate your leftover glazed beef shanks in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavor and tenderness. For longer storage, freeze the beef shanks for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool them completely before placing them in a suitable container to avoid freezer burn!
Can I freeze glazed beef shanks?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your beef shanks to cool down completely. Then, transfer them into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist.
What if my sauce turns out too thin?
Don’t worry; it’s a common issue! If you find your sauce is thin, let the strained liquid simmer on the stovetop for about 15–20 minutes until it thickens up to your desired consistency. After that, whisk in the peanut butter; it not only adds creaminess but also deepens the flavor profile of your delicious glazed beef shanks with coffee and peanuts.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish to guests with nut allergies, I recommend substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. To make the dish vegetarian, consider using portobello mushrooms or eggplant instead of beef. Remember, the more the merrier; adjust the recipe as needed to suit everyone’s dietary needs!
How can I add more spice to my dish?
Very easy! If you’re looking for more heat, simply increase the amount of Fresno chile or chiles de árbol in the recipe. Alternatively, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of chipotle powder during the cooking process can give your glazed beef shanks a delightful kick without overpowering the rich flavors!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle the beef shanks generously with kosher salt. Let them rest for 1 hour at room temperature to enhance flavors and ensure a succulent result.
- Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). If you’ve chilled the beef, permit it to sit for 30 minutes before cooking.
- In a roasting pan, heat peanut oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef shanks evenly for about 15-20 minutes.
- Place the whole peeled plum tomatoes in a blender and process until smooth. Set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and add chopped yellow onion, ginger slices, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Fresno chile, and chiles de árbol, cooking until fragrant for about 3 minutes.
- Mix in the strong-brewed coffee and pureed tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes.
- Nestle the beef shanks back into the sauce. Add enough water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Cover with foil. Roast in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- Once done, take the beef shanks out and allow them to rest for about 15 minutes. Strain the braising liquid into a bowl.
- In a saucepan, simmer the strained liquid for 15-20 minutes until thickened, whisking in peanut butter until smooth.
- Return the beef shanks to the pan and warm through for an additional 8-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with crushed roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro.