Dredge the shanks through flour. Shake the excess flour.
Heat Dutch oven over medium-high heat with oil. When fully heated add the beef shanks, careful not to crowd.
Brown all sides of the beef, 3-4 minutes per side, allowing the meat to caramelize.
Remove the meat from the pan and set aside. Lower the temperature to medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté the mixture on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour the wine to deglaze, making sure to scrape up all of the brown bits left by the meat and vegetables. Allow wine to reduce by half.
Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan and continue to stir.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add the beef shanks back to the pan, along with the drippings on the plate.
Stir in the water or broth, and add fresh herbs and bay leaves.
Cover with lid and simmer on low for 2 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender and the sauce is reduced. This can also be cooked for the same amount of time in a 350 degree oven.
Remove pot from the stove or oven.
Discard the stems from the herbs and the bay leaves.
Sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top.
Serve over polenta, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Enjoy!