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When cooking affordable and flavorful meals, beef round, often overlooked, might be your new best friend in the kitchen. Whether you’re a slow-cooking enthusiast, a grill master, or just trying to meal prep on a budget, beef knuckle offers delicious versatility without compromising texture or taste.
But what exactly is beef knuckle? How do you cook this underrated yet flavorful cut of meat? This guide will walk you through everything you need—from understanding the cut to preparing the perfect dish. Plus, we’ll share a foolproof recipe for tender, mouth-watering beef round that will have your taste buds singing.
Introduction
Author Notes
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. I took years of trial and error to master the fine art of cooking knuckle meat beef. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe and cooking tips so you can whip up meals that make you the star of your kitchen.
Key takeaway? Simplicity is key, but the possibilities are endless with peeled knuckles—it’s all about knowing your way around knuckle meat. Whether you’re slow-cooking, stir-frying, or braising, I’ll help you unlock its potential.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable yet quality cut: Beef round is tasty and cost-effective for budget-conscious cooks.
- Nutrient-packed: Rich in protein, it’s ideal for fitness enthusiasts and meal preppers.
- Versatile usage: Suitable for roasting, slow cooking, grilling, or slicing for stir-fry.
Now that we’ve set the stage let’s jump into our must-try recipe for cooking tender beef knuckles.
Beef Knuckle Recipe Details
Ingredients with Amounts
Here’s what you need to gather to prepare this hearty dish:
- 1.5 lbs beef knuckle (peeled)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
Follow these simple steps to make a beef knuckle like a pro:
Step 1: Prepare the beef knuckle
- If using a whole knuckle, trim excess fat and sinew. Cut your knuckle meat into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Marinate
- Season the meat with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes to enhance flavour.
Step 3: Sear the meat
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Sear the beef knuckles on all sides until golden brown, then set aside.
Step 4: Sauté aromatics
- Using the same pot, sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 5: Build the base
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly, letting the ingredients meld.
Step 6: Cook low and slow
- Return the beef knuckle to the pot. Add beef stock and bay leaves. Bring everything to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 2–3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
- Before serving, remove bay leaves and sprinkle parsley on top for a vibrant finish. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Preparation & Cooking Times, Servings, and Yield
| Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 2–3 hours | Total Time: 2.5–3.5 hours |
| Servings: 4-6 | Yield: Rich, tender beef round stew ideal for hearty meals |
Cooking Tips
Cook’s Note
- Here’s a game-changing tip for cooking knuckle meat perfectly every time: use low and slow heat. Knuckle meat has connective tissues that break into gelatin when cooked over low heat, giving your dish an incredibly tender texture.
Variations/Substitutions
- Herb swap: Replace parsley with cilantro or thyme for a different flavour profile.
- Substitute liquid: Swap out beef stock with red wine for a bolder taste.
- Global flair: Add soy sauce and star anise for an Asian-inspired twist.
Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife (for trimming and cutting the knuckle)
- Dutch oven or slow cooker
- Wooden spoon (avoid using metal to preserve pot coating)
- Cutting board
Nutrition & Serving
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| 285 | 11g | 6g | 38g |
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
| 520mg | 2g | ||
| Sodium | Fiber |
Serving Suggestions
Pair your delectable beef round stew with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Buttered crusty bread
- Grilled vegetables or coleslaw for a side of crunch
Final Thoughts
Personal Touch
Cooking beef round is more than just a recipe; it explores flavours, textures, and techniques that can turn a humble cut of meat into a star dish. The beauty of beef knuckle lies in its versatility—it works wonderfully in slow-cooked stews, hearty soups, or even as a roasted centrepiece. I love preparing this for family get-togethers—it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Seasoning, searing, and slow cooking allow the flavours to develop deeply while the meat becomes meltingly tender over time. There’s something so satisfying about the aroma that fills the kitchen and the rewarding sight of the meat falling apart after hours of careful cooking. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
Conclusion
Beef knuckle may become your go-to cut for affordable, flavorful, high-protein meals. This underrated cut is budget-friendly and incredibly versatile, perfect for various cooking styles. Whether you’re a meal-prepping enthusiast looking to batch-cook for the week or a BBQ pro experimenting with different cuts, knuckle meat deserves a place in your kitchen. Its tender texture and rich, beefy flavour are hard to beat when prepared correctly—braised, slow-cooked, grilled, or roasted.
But here’s the secret: all it takes to elevate beef knuckles from good to great is a little know-how and the right recipe. With the proper seasoning and cooking technique, you’ll unlock its full potential and create dishes your family and friends will rave about. (Hint hint—you now have one!) Give beef round a try; it might become your new favourite cut.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef knuckles with other cuts, such as chuck roast or brisket, but the cooking time may vary.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Beef knuckle stew is even better when made ahead. Prepare it up to two days in advance, let it cool, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavours will meld and develop further during resting time, making it tastier when reheated.
What is beef knuckle?
Beef knuckle is a lean cut from the hindquarters of the cow. It’s affordable and versatile, great for slow cooking, grilling, or stir-frying.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just sear the meat and sauté the aromatics in a pan first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Where can I buy beef knuckles?
Beef knuckles are available at most butcher shops, meat markets, and supermarket meat sections. Ask for “peeled knuckle” for easier prep.
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