My great aunt made this every spring when money was tight. One tough cheap cut transforms into the most tender meal your family will devour

the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water if needed.

To stay true to the Depression-era spirit, this recipe keeps to four basic ingredients, but there are many small ways to adapt it while still leaning on economy and practicality. If you want a bit more savoriness without adding extra ingredients, brown the shanks very deeply and let any browned bits on the pan’s bottom cook off into the water before adding it to the slow cooker; those caramelized bits intensify flavor. If you