Step 1

Preheat the oven at 325°F / 165°C / Gas Mark 3.

Step 2

Thaw the shanks for at least an hour before you plan to cook. Place them on clean paper hand towels and pat them dry. Pro tip - The shanks must be dry. Otherwise, they will stew instead of sear. I like to leave to thaw them uncovered in the fridge overnight so that excess moisture can dry out.

Step 3

Generously season the shanks with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Then, coat each one in flour and dust off excess flour. And set aside.Pro tip - You can tie each shank with kitchen twine to hold them together so they do not fall apart during cooking. I did not do this today as you can see in the video.

Step 4

Use a large oven-safe pan such as a Dutch oven, that will accommodate all the shanks. Add one tbsp oil and one tablespoon butter. Pro tip - Alternatively you can sear the meat in batches as I have done in the video. I prefer to use a large pot with a wide circumference so each piece of shank sits comfortably in a single layer.

Step 5

Sear the shanks on each side for at least 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside. There is no need to add more oil or unsalted butter for the next batch.Pro tip - Keep the heat on medium to high and do not turn the shanks for the first two minutes. This will ensure good caramelization.

Step 6

In the same pan, add the remaining oil and butter along with the garlic. Followed by brown sugar and honey. Saute for just about 30 seconds. Then, add the tomato paste, Sriracha, and balsamic vinegar. Pro tip - Keep the heat to medium as these are delicate ingredients and we do not want them to burn, especially the garlic.

Step 7

Next, add the red wine and season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil and let boil for two mintues. Pro tip - We want to boil the red wine for just two minutes to cook out some of the alcohol.

Step 8

Add the bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth. Return the shanks to the pan and bring to a gentle boil. Pro tip - Use tongs to transfer the meat and gently tuck them in the liquid. They must be almost submerged under the cooking liquid so they cook evenly.

Step 9

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and transfer to the oven on the middle rack. Cook covered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until fork-tender. Pro tip - I am using aluminum foil. But, if using a dutch oven you can also cover with its own lid.

Step 10

Remove from the thyme and rosemary sprigs and discard. Garnish with chopped parsley.