When the chill of winter’s touch wraps around your home, there’s hardly anything more comforting than a slow-cooked meal that fills the air with irresistible aromas. Enter the star of today’s culinary adventure: Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts. The first time I experienced this heartwarming dish, I was taken aback by how a simple ingredient list could deliver such rich, complex flavors.
Inspired by traditional osso buco, my version incorporates the unexpected kick of coffee and the nuttiness of peanuts, creating a soul-satisfying harmony. And don’t be intimidated by the timing; the process is simple and allows you to engage in delightful conversations while you wait for the oven to work its magic. Served alongside creamy polenta or roasted vegetables, this dish transforms any meal into a special occasion.
So grab your apron—let’s get cooking and discover how to turn those humble beef shanks into a feast your loved ones will cherish!
Why Will You Love This Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts?
Comfort in Every Bite: This dish transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal that hugs your taste buds.
Rich, Bold Flavors: The unique combination of coffee and peanuts adds a deep, savory richness, elevating traditional osso buco.
Effortless Cooking: With straightforward steps and most of the cooking time in the oven, you can enjoy hassle-free gourmet at home.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with creamy polenta or seasonal veggies, making it suitable for any occasion, from cozy dinners to festive gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying cozy family nights, the delightful aroma alone is an invitation to the table!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Ingredients
For the Beef Shanks
• Osso buco–cut Angus beef shanks – these flavorful cuts become meltingly tender when braised.
• Kosher salt – essential for seasoning the beef, enhancing its natural flavors.
• Peanut oil – provides high smoke point for browning the beef perfectly.
For the Braising Liquid
• Whole peeled plum tomatoes – their natural sweetness helps balance the robust flavors.
• Yellow onion – adds depth and sweetness as it caramelizes during cooking.
• Fresh ginger slices – lends a subtle spice note that brightens the dish.
• Garlic cloves – infuse the braising liquid with aromatic, savory flavor.
• Tomato paste – deepens the color and intensifies the tomato flavor profile.
• Red Fresno chile – introduces a gentle heat, complimenting the beef.
• Chiles de árbol – these fiery little chiles elevate the flavor complexity.
• Strong-brewed coffee – gives the dish its distinctive richness and depth; an unexpected twist for Glazed Beef Shanks.
• Water – necessary to balance the braising liquid.
For the Spices
• Toasted coriander seeds – contributes a warm, slightly citrusy flavor.
• Toasted cumin seeds – adds earthiness that enhances the dish’s overall aroma.
• Toasted fenugreek seeds – provides a hint of sweetness and a unique fragrance.
• Toasted cinnamon stick – warm spices that beautifully complement the savory elements.
• Toasted Tellicherry peppercorns – elevates the overall spice and flavor profile.
For the Sauce
• Creamy peanut butter – introduces a delightful nuttiness and richness to the sauce.
• Finely crushed roasted peanuts – for garnishing, they add crunch and texture.
• Finely ground coffee beans – a whisper of coffee essence to finish off the sauce brilliantly.
• Fresh cilantro leaves – bright, fresh finish to lift the dish’s flavors.
Gather these ingredients and prepare to dive into a culinary experience that warms the heart and delights the palate!
How to Make Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts
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Season the Beef: Sprinkle the osso buco-cut Angus beef shanks all over with kosher salt, allowing them to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat beautifully.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 300°F. If you’ve chilled the beef overnight, give it about 30 minutes to warm up at room temperature before cooking.
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Brown the Beef: In a roasting pan, heat peanut oil over medium-high until it starts to smoke. Add the seasoned beef shanks and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides—about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the shanks from the pan and set aside.
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Blend the Tomatoes: While the beef is browning, process the whole peeled plum tomatoes in a blender until smooth—this should take about 15 seconds. Set the tomato puree aside for later.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and add sliced onion, ginger, and garlic to the roasting pan. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom to release all those tasty bits, until the onion is softened—around 6 to 8 minutes.
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Add More Flavor: Stir in the tomato paste, halved Fresno chile, and chiles de árbol. Cook, stirring often, until the mixture becomes fragrant—this will take approximately 3 minutes.
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Combine Liquids: Pour in the strong-brewed coffee along with the pureed tomatoes. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 2 minutes.
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Nestle the Beef: Return the browned beef shanks back to the pan, nestling them into the delicious tomato mix. Then, add 1 1/2 cups of water, toasted coriander, cumin, fenugreek seeds, the cinnamon stick, and peppercorns.
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Start Roasting: Bring the liquid back to a boil again over medium heat. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, then carefully transfer it to your preheated oven. Roast the beef until it’s fork-tender—this should take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours. Uncover and roast for an additional 30 minutes.
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Let It Rest: Once the roasting time is done, remove the pan from the oven and let the beef stand for 15 minutes. Transfer the beef to a platter and cover it with foil to keep warm.
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Strain the Liquid: Pour the braising liquid through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl, discarding the solids. Wipe the roasting pan clean.
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Reduce the Sauce: Return the strained braising liquid to the cleaned pan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid thickens slightly and reduces to about 5 cups—this will take around 15 to 20 minutes.
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Incorporate Peanut Butter: Whisk the creamy peanut butter into the reduced sauce in the pan until smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt to taste for that perfect balance.
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Heat the Beef: Add the beef back to the pan, cooking over medium-low heat. Baste occasionally until the beef is warmed through—about 8 to 10 minutes.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish off your dish by garnishing with crushed roasted peanuts, finely ground coffee beans, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately for a memorable meal!
Optional: Pair with creamy polenta for an enticing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts
Fridge: Store any leftover glazed beef shanks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled beef shanks in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure to label it for easy identification later.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated all the way through for the best taste experience.
Sauce Storage: Store the braising liquid separately to keep it fresh; it adds incredible flavor when reheating the glazed beef shanks with coffee and peanuts.
Expert Tips for Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts
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Proper Salt Usage: Don’t skimp on the kosher salt during seasoning; it’s crucial for enhancing the beef’s natural flavors. Adequate time to rest helps absorb the salt.
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Browning Makes All the Difference: Achieve a deep, rich flavor by ensuring your beef shanks are nicely browned on all sides; this creates a glorious foundation for your braising liquid.
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Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the beef to rest after cooking ensures it retains its juices. Cover it with foil to keep the heat in while you prepare the sauce.
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Strain the Liquid Thoroughly: Straining your braising liquid is essential for a velvety sauce; it removes solids and enhances the smoothness of the finished Glazed Beef Shanks dish.
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Adjust for Personal Preference: Feel free to tweak the level of heat by adjusting the chiles used, based on your family’s taste preference. Enjoy the journey into a world of flavors!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Variations
Explore delightful twists and modifications to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Spicy Kick: Add a finely chopped jalapeño during the sautéing process for an extra layer of heat.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the braising liquid for aromatic notes. Their earthy scents will dance beautifully with the beef’s richness.
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Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute creamy sunflower seed butter for peanut butter to create a nut-free version while still keeping that rich creaminess.
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Vegan Version: Use hearty jackfruit or mushrooms in place of beef shanks for a delicious plant-based adaptation, still infused with that gorgeous coffee and tomato sauce.
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Smoky Depth: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the braising mix for a tantalizing smoky flavor that enhances the dish’s complexity.
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Citrus Brightness: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the braising liquid for a pop of freshness that cuts through the richness of the meat.
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Red Wine Boost: Swap out half a cup of water with red wine in the braising liquid for added depth and sophistication.
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Sweet Element: Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup into the sauce for a delightful hint of sweetness that wonderfully balances the savory components.
What to Serve with Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these hearty beef shanks with complementary sides that enhance the rich, delightful flavors of the dish.
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Creamy Polenta: This smooth and rich side absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, adding an indulgent touch to every bite. The comforting texture of polenta harmonizes perfectly with the bold flavors of the beef.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted to perfection bring a touch of natural sweetness and crispness that balances the dish’s richness. Their vibrant colors make your plate appealing!
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy and buttery, these mashed potatoes are excellent for soaking up the luscious braising sauce. A classic twist that never fails to please the crowd.
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Butter Lettuce Salad: Crisp butter lettuce with a light vinaigrette can introduce a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef, providing a vibrant crunch without overwhelming flavors.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. The bread adds a satisfying texture and a comforting element that enhances the homemade feel of the meal.
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Rich Red Wine: Opt for a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the depth of flavors. Each sip enhances the overall dining experience, making it feel more like a special occasion.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse. Its rich flavor perfectly contrasts with the savory dishes, leaving everyone delighted.
By choosing a mix of these pairings, you can turn your meal into a cherished memory, filled with warmth and shared love.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! You can season the osso buco-cut beef shanks with kosher salt up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the salt to enhance the meat’s flavor while you attend to other tasks. Additionally, the braising liquid, including the blended tomatoes and aromatic vegetables, can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the liquid, nestle the browned beef back into the sauce, and continue cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal that tastes just as good as if it were made fresh!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beef shanks for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for osso buco-cut Angus beef shanks that are well-marbled with fat. The marbling is key to achieving tenderness and flavor during the braising process. Choose shanks that are at least 1 1/2 pounds and about 2 inches thick for optimal results.
What’s the best way to store leftover glazed beef shanks?
Very! Place any leftover glazed beef shanks in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze cooled beef shanks in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them for easy identification later!
Can I freeze the braising sauce?
Certainly! After cooking, let the braising liquid cool, then pour it into a separate airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date and type of sauce. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
What should I do if my beef shanks are not tender after the suggested cooking time?
Don’t worry! If your beef shanks aren’t fork-tender after the recommended cooking time, cover them again with foil and return them to the oven. Continue roasting in 30-minute intervals until tenderness is achieved. Don’t skip the resting time afterward—it makes a world of difference in your final dish.
Is this recipe suitable for those with peanut allergies?
Great question! If anyone has peanut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with a creamy seed butter like sunflower seed butter for a similar richness without the allergens. You can also omit the peanuts altogether to ensure safety while still enjoying a delicious dish!
How can I enhance the flavors of the braising liquid?
Absolutely! To boost the flavor of your braising liquid, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can also contribute to a more aromatic sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little!
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts Recipe FAQs
Glazed Beef Shanks with Coffee and Peanuts: A Bold Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle kosher salt on the beef shanks and let them sit for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F.
- Brown the beef in peanut oil for 15-20 minutes.
- Process the tomatoes in a blender until smooth.
- Sauté onion, ginger, and garlic until softened.
- Add tomato paste and chiles, cooking until fragrant.
- Combine coffee and pureed tomatoes; bring to a boil.
- Nestle beef shanks back into the pan and add water and spices.
- Cover with foil and roast for 2.5-3 hours.
- Let the beef rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Strain the liquid and reduce on the stove for sauce.
- Whisk in peanut butter and season with salt.
- Add beef back to the pan and heat through.
- Garnish with peanuts, coffee beans, and cilantro.