Beef shank crosscuts are a popular cut of beef that are both lean and flavorful. At just 201 calories per 100 grams, they are a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. When trimmed to just 1/4 inch of fat and cooked with a simmering method, like braising, they become even leaner and more tender.

In addition to being low in calories, beef shank crosscuts are also high in protein. They provide 28 grams of protein per 100 grams of meat, making them a great source of this essential nutrient.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about beef shank crosscuts, including how to prepare them, compare them to other cuts of beef, and even some healthy recipe options.

Introduction to Beef Shank Crosscuts

Beef shank crosscuts come from the leg of the cow and are a relatively cheap and flavorful cut of beef. They have a lot of connective tissue and are a tougher cut of meat, which makes them ideal for low and slow cooking methods like braising, slow cooking or stewing. While it may take a little more time to prepare, the end result is a tender and delicious meal that is perfect for cooler days. When selecting beef shank crosscuts, look for ones that are lean and have minimal visible fat. It's also important to note that they may come with a bone in them so be sure to factor that into your cooking time. Overall, beef shank crosscuts are a great choice for those looking to add more protein to their diet without sacrificing flavor.

Caloric Content of Beef Shank Crosscuts

As mentioned earlier, beef shank crosscuts are relatively low in calories, with just 201 calories per 100 grams of meat. This makes them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight. It's important to note that the calorie count will vary depending on how the beef shank crosscuts are prepared. When cooked with a low-fat method, like simmering or braising, the calorie count will be even lower.

Protein Content of Beef Shank Crosscuts

In addition to being low in calories, beef shank crosscuts are also high in protein. With 28 grams of protein per 100 grams of meat, they are a great source of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for building and repairing muscles and tissues in the body, making it an important part of a healthy diet.

Preparation Methods for Beef Shank Crosscuts

Beef shank crosscuts require a low and slow cooking method to become tender and flavorful. Braising, slow-cooking or stewing are all great options. Start by searing the meat on both sides until it's browned then add liquid to cover the meat and let it cook on a low heat for a few hours. This will allow the connective tissue to break down and the meat to become tender. Another option for cooking beef shank crosscuts is in the slow cooker. Simply add the meat and your choice of vegetables and liquid to the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. The end result will be a tender and delicious meal that requires very little hands-on time.

Healthy Beef Shank Crosscut Recipes

Here are some healthy recipe options to try with beef shank crosscuts: - Slow Cooker Beef Shank Stew: This easy and delicious recipe only requires a few minutes of prep time and the slow cooker does the rest. Add beef shank crosscuts, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and beef broth to the slow cooker and let it simmer all day for a delicious and nutritious meal. - Braised Beef Shank with Parmesan Cauliflower Mash: this recipe replaces traditional mashed potatoes with cauliflower to make a healthier side dish while the beef shank crosscuts are braised in red wine, thyme, garlic and beef stock.

Comparing Beef Shank Crosscuts to Other Cuts of Beef

Beef shank crosscuts are a relatively cheap cut of beef that require some extra care and attention to prepare, but the end result is worth it. Compared to other cuts of beef, like tenderloin or ribeye, they are much leaner and contain less fat, making them a healthier option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight.

Choosing and Buying Beef Shank Crosscuts

When purchasing beef shank crosscuts, look for cuts that are lean and have minimal visible fat. Choose cuts that are a bright red color and avoid any that have a grayish tint to them. You may also want to consider buying organic, grass-fed beef if possible for a healthier option.

Storing and Handling Beef Shank Crosscuts

Beef shank crosscuts should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. If refrigerated, use within 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 6 months. When handling raw meat, be sure to follow food safety guidelines to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. When preparing beef shank crosscuts, be sure to trim any visible fat to reduce the overall fat content of the meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Shank Crosscuts

Beef shank crosscuts offer a number of nutritional benefits, including being high in protein and low in calories. They also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamins B6 and B12, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet.

Potential Health Risks of Beef Shank Crosscuts

While beef shank crosscuts offer a number of nutritional benefits, it's important to note that they may also carry a risk of harmful bacteria like E.coli or salmonella, which can cause foodborne illness. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, be sure to follow safe handling and cooking practices, including washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat and cooking beef shank crosscuts to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.