SHANKBONE Meaning and
Definition
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A shankbone refers to the bone found in the lower leg region of various animals, particularly the tibia bone of an animal's hindquarter. It is commonly considered as the meaty bone found in the leg of a lamb, goat, or veal. The shankbone is characterized by its cylindrical shape and is located between the knee joint and the foot. It is a weight-bearing bone that provides support and stability for the animal while standing, walking, or running.
Typically, the shankbone contains a considerable amount of connective tissue, including tendon and ligament, making it relatively tough and resilient. Due to this composition, it requires slow and gentle cooking methods such as braising or stewing to soften the connective tissues and render the meat tender and succulent.
Culinary-wise, the shankbone is highly regarded for its rich flavor and gelatinous texture, imparting a unique taste to various dishes. It is often used in the preparation of traditional recipes like osso buco, a classic Italian braised dish, where the shankbone is seared and then simmered for an extended period in a flavored liquid until the meat becomes fork-tender. The shankbone is also commonly utilized in making hearty soups, stews, and stocks, as the slow cooking process allows for the marrow to infuse into the liquid, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth.
Common Misspellings for SHANKBONE
Etymology of SHANKBONE
The word "shankbone" is derived from Old English "sceanca" or "sceanco,” which referred to the lower part of a person's leg or any long, slender bone. It can also be traced to the Germanic word "skanka", meaning leg or shank. Over time, the term "shankbone" became specifically associated with the bone found in the lower part of the leg of an animal, particularly a lamb, and is often used in the context of Passover traditions when referring to the symbolic roasted lamb shankbone on the Seder plate.
