Exploring the culinary landscape of Filipino cuisine, the humble monk shank, or "bulalo" as it is commonly known, presents a delightful opportunity for gastronomic exploration. This cut, known for its rich, gelatinous qualities, is the backbone of many comforting, soul-warming dishes. If you're seeking to add some new, inventive spins to your traditional monk shank recipes, this post is your guide to five easy, pickup-ready recipes that elevate this often-overlooked cut.
The Classic Bulalo with a Twist
Bulalo is not just a soup; it’s an experience. Here’s how to make a classic with a slight variation:
- 500 grams of beef monk shank
- Corn on the cob, cut into smaller pieces
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Onions and garlic
- Knorr Beef Cubes or similar
- Whole peppercorns
- Salt
Cooking Steps:
- Simmer the monk shank with onions, garlic, salt, and peppercorns for 2-3 hours until tender.
- Add in the corn, then the carrots and green beans for the last 15-20 minutes.
- Season to taste with beef cubes.
💡 Note: For a different texture and flavor, try roasting the corn before adding it to the broth.
Spicy Monk Shank Stew
Give your traditional stew a spicy kick:
- 500 grams of monk shank, cut into chunks
- Spicy paste or sambal
- Potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers
- Tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Fish sauce or patis
- Garlic, onion
- Bay leaves
Cooking Steps:
- Sear the monk shank until browned, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic and onions, then add in the spicy paste or sambal for flavor.
- Combine all ingredients in a pot, let it simmer until the meat is tender, and the vegetables are cooked.
Monk Shank Carbonara
A novel fusion dish for a creamy, comforting experience:
- 300 grams of monk shank, cut into small pieces
- Pasta of your choice
- Cream or milk
- Egg yolks
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Boil the monk shank until tender, then shred or chop.
- Cook pasta to al dente.
- In a pan, melt butter, mix with cream, and thicken with egg yolks.
- Add the monk shank and cooked pasta, toss well, and season with Parmesan.
Grilled Monk Shank Skewers
Perfect for outdoor gatherings or quick meals:
- 500 grams of monk shank, cut into cubes
- Marinade (soya sauce, vinegar, garlic, pepper, sugar)
- Bamboo skewers
- Vegetables of your choice for skewering
Cooking Steps:
- Marinate the monk shank for at least 2 hours.
- Thread onto skewers alternately with vegetables.
- Grill until charred and cooked through, basting with the remaining marinade.
💡 Note: This is an excellent recipe for picnics or barbeques, offering a tender and flavorful bite.
Monk Shank Rendang
A time-consuming yet rewarding recipe inspired by Indonesian flavors:
- 500 grams of monk shank, cut into pieces
- Coconut milk
- Spice paste (tumeric, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, chilies)
- Kaffir lime leaves
- Toasted coconut or 'kerisik'
Cooking Steps:
- Brown the monk shank pieces, then remove.
- Sauté the spice paste until fragrant, add coconut milk, and simmer.
- Add monk shank, let it cook slowly until the sauce thickens.
In crafting these five easy monk shank recipes, you embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the depth of flavor and the comforting richness this cut offers. Whether you’re exploring new techniques or revisiting traditional recipes with innovative touches, the monk shank is a versatile star ingredient that can turn any meal into a special occasion. By experimenting with these dishes, you not only enhance your cooking skills but also invite a global flavor palette into your kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the satisfaction of a well-prepared meal that brings people together.
How long does it typically take to tenderize monk shank?
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Monk shank can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours of slow cooking to become tender. Using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce this time to about 45-60 minutes.
Is it possible to cook monk shank in a slow cooker?
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Yes, monk shank is perfect for slow cooking. It can be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until it becomes tender.
What are some good side dishes to serve with monk shank?
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Side dishes like steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the richness of monk shank dishes. For Bulalo, a side of fish sauce with calamansi (citrus) is traditional.
Can monk shank be used in different cuisines?
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Absolutely, monk shank’s versatility allows it to be adapted into various global cuisines. From European braises to Asian stews, it pairs well with a multitude of flavors.
