Hayden Quinn, the charismatic cook and television personality, is known for his adventurous culinary creations and engaging screen presence. Recently seen on Dancing With The Stars on Channel 7, Quinn is now captivating audiences with his cooking show, Taste of Australia, which airs on 7 and 7Plus. As the series takes a break, Quinn is sharing a recipe that promises to warm hearts and satisfy taste buds: a slow-cooked beef shank with creamy polenta.
This dish, featured on his show, embodies the essence of comfort food, perfect for the colder months. The recipe not only highlights Quinn’s culinary skills but also showcases quality ingredients from Our Cow and the New England Brewing Co.
The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Quinn’s slow-cooked beef shank recipe is versatile, allowing for various cooking methods, whether over a campfire, on a stovetop, or in a slow cooker. The process remains consistent, with cooking times being the primary variable. Below is a detailed guide to recreating this winter warmer at home.
Ingredients
- 1 x Our Cow Beef Shank
- 1 large brown onion, chopped
- 1 head garlic, halved
- 2 carrots, cut in large chunks
- 2 sticks celery, cut in large chunks
- 1 bay leaf
- 5 sprigs thyme
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- 1 can New England Brewing Co Grandad Brown
- 12 whole button mushrooms
- 1L beef stock (enough to cover the shank)
Polenta
- 250g instant fine polenta*
- 1L full cream milk
- 2 bay leaves
- 200g Western Star salted butter
- 1 cup parmesan, finely grated
- Sea salt, to taste
*Polenta can be substituted with mashed potatoes.
Method
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 160°C. In an extra-large oven-proof pot or dish, brown the beef shank on all sides. Once browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Next, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until aromatic and the onions have softened slightly.
Step 2: Building Flavors
Add the herbs and the full can of beer to the pot, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Incorporate the mushrooms and stir through.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Return the shank to the pot and pour in enough beef stock to cover it. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then place it in the oven. Cook for five and a half hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once cooked, gently remove the shank from the pot and cover it with foil. Place the pot over high heat and simmer rapidly to reduce the sauce.
Step 5: Preparing the Polenta
To cook the polenta, bring the milk to a gentle simmer with the bay leaves. Gradually add the polenta, stirring constantly. Once thickened, remove from heat and add butter and parmesan, whipping vigorously until fully incorporated. Serve the polenta on a large dish.
Step 6: Serving
Place the shank onto the bed of polenta, reserving the sauce to dress the meat when serving individual portions.
Quinn’s Culinary Journey
Hayden Quinn’s culinary journey has been as dynamic as his television career. From his early days as a contestant on MasterChef Australia to his current role as a host, Quinn has consistently showcased his passion for food and adventure. His latest recipe is a testament to his ability to blend traditional cooking techniques with modern flair.
Quinn’s choice of ingredients reflects his commitment to quality and sustainability. By partnering with local producers like Our Cow and using craft beer from New England Brewing Co, he highlights the importance of supporting local businesses and using fresh, high-quality products.
The Impact of Cooking Shows
Cooking shows like Taste of Australia have a significant impact on viewers, inspiring them to explore new recipes and cooking techniques. According to culinary experts, such shows can boost local economies by promoting regional ingredients and culinary tourism.
“Cooking shows have the power to transform how people perceive food and cooking. They encourage viewers to experiment in the kitchen and discover the joys of home-cooked meals,” said a culinary analyst.
As Quinn continues to share his culinary expertise, his influence on home cooks and food enthusiasts remains strong. His recipes not only provide delicious meals but also offer an opportunity to connect with the rich tapestry of Australian cuisine.
Looking ahead, fans eagerly anticipate the return of Taste of Australia and the new culinary adventures Quinn will embark upon. Until then, his slow-cooked beef shank with creamy polenta serves as a delightful reminder of the warmth and comfort that good food can bring.
