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Braised Mutton Shank
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Braised Mutton Shank

Ovis aries

Clinical Encyclopedia

Braised mutton shank is a flavorful and tender cut of meat, slow-cooked to perfection, making it a popular dish in various cuisines. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, providing a hearty meal option.

Also known as:
Mutton ShankBraised Lamb Shank
Scientific NameOvis aries
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total40.0g
Protein
25g(63%)
Fats
15g(38%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.3 mg (23%)
Vitamin B122 µg (83%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 µgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus150 mg (15%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc4 mg (36%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium10 µg (18%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 10 mgManganese: 0 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health, including B vitamins and iron.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fats; excessive consumption may contribute to heart disease. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared through slow cooking or braising to enhance tenderness and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose shanks that are bright red with minimal fat and a good amount of marbling for flavor.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, Iron-rich, Source of B vitamins
Main Applications
Culinary uses in stews and braises
Nutritional support for muscle recovery
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

May help in fat loss and muscle gain.

How to Consume
Braised, Stewed, Grilled
Did you know?

"Mutton has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often associated with traditional feasts and celebrations."

Myths vs Realities

MythMutton is tough and hard to cook.
RealityWhen braised properly, mutton becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
MythMutton is unhealthy due to high fat content.
RealityIn moderation, mutton can be part of a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients.
MythAll mutton is gamey and unpalatable.
RealityThe flavor of mutton can vary greatly depending on the animal's diet and cooking method.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Braised Mutton Shank with Quinoa

A flavorful dish featuring braised mutton shank infused with Mediterranean spices, served over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the mutton shanks with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
  2. 2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add the mutton shanks and brown on all sides.
  3. 3. Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, cover, and braise on low heat for 2-3 hours until tender. Serve over cooked quinoa and garnish with fresh parsley.

Asian-Inspired Braised Mutton Shank with Bok Choy

This dish combines tender braised mutton shank with savory Asian flavors, complemented by fresh bok choy for a healthy twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 2 cups low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, sliced
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 4 bok choy, halved
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add mutton shanks, soy sauce, and water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and braise for 3 hours.
  3. 3. During the last 10 minutes, add bok choy and rice vinegar. Serve garnished with sesame seeds.

Herb-Crusted Braised Mutton Shank with Root Vegetables

A hearty dish featuring herb-crusted braised mutton shank served with a medley of nutritious root vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup mixed herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
  • 4 carrots, chopped
  • 2 parsnips, chopped
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Rub mutton shanks with Dijon mustard and coat with mixed herbs.
  2. 2. In a large oven-safe pot, place the shanks and surround with root vegetables. Pour in beef broth.
  3. 3. Cover and braise in the oven for 3 hours until meat is tender. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Spicy Braised Mutton Shank Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These tacos feature spicy braised mutton shank, topped with a refreshing avocado salsa for a healthy and delicious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season mutton shanks with chili powder, cumin, salt, and braise in a pot with water for 3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. Shred the meat and warm the corn tortillas.
  3. 3. Top each tortilla with shredded mutton and avocado salsa made from avocado, tomato, onion, lime juice, and salt.

Braised Mutton Shank with Lentils and Spinach

A nutritious dish combining tender braised mutton shank with protein-rich lentils and fresh spinach for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add mutton shanks, lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and braise for 2-3 hours until meat is tender.
  3. 3. Stir in fresh spinach before serving for added nutrition.

Braised Mutton Shank with Sweet Potato Mash

This comforting dish features braised mutton shank served alongside creamy sweet potato mash, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot, then add mutton shanks, broth, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Braise for 3 hours.
  2. 2. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with a little salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the mutton shank over sweet potato mash.

Braised Mutton Shank with Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb option featuring braised mutton shank served over cauliflower rice, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic, then add mutton shanks, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Braise for 3 hours.
  2. 2. While the mutton cooks, steam grated cauliflower until tender, then fluff with a fork.
  3. 3. Serve the mutton shank over cauliflower rice.

Braised Mutton Shank with Chickpea Salad

This dish pairs tender braised mutton shank with a refreshing chickpea salad, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braised mutton shanks in a pot with water and seasonings for 3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the mutton shank alongside the chickpea salad.

Braised Mutton Shank with Green Bean Almondine

A delightful dish featuring braised mutton shank served with sautéed green beans and almonds for a crunchy, healthy side.

Ingredients
  • 2 mutton shanks
  • 2 cups green beans, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic, then add mutton shanks, broth, salt, and pepper. Braise for 3 hours.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté green beans and almonds until the beans are tender and almonds are golden.
  3. 3. Serve the mutton shank with green bean almondine on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is braised mutton shank healthy?

Yes, it is rich in protein and essential nutrients, but should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content.

How long should I braise mutton shank?

Typically, braising should take about 2-3 hours at a low temperature for optimal tenderness.

Can I use lamb shank instead of mutton?

Yes, lamb shank is a suitable substitute and is often more tender.

What are the best spices for braising mutton?

Common spices include garlic, rosemary, thyme, and cumin.

How can I tell when mutton shank is done?

It should be fork-tender and the meat should easily pull away from the bone.

What sides pair well with braised mutton shank?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement it well.

Can I freeze braised mutton shank?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it is stored in an airtight container.

What is the difference between mutton and lamb?

Mutton comes from older sheep, while lamb is from younger sheep, resulting in different flavors and textures.