Slow Cooked Lamb Shank Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dinner, lamb shank is the perfect choice. Slow-cooked until tender and juicy, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make - all you need is a bit of patience and a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 lamb shanks
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and brown them on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Add the red wine and beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and return the lamb shanks to the pot.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Cook for 4-5 hours, or until the lamb shanks are tender and falling off the bone.
6. Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the lamb shanks to a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
7. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid. If the cooking liquid is too thin, simmer it over medium-high heat until it reduces and thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve the lamb shanks with the cooking liquid, crispy potatoes, and vegetables. Enjoy!

Vegetarian/Vegan Alternative

If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy the flavors of this dish by using seitan or jackfruit instead of lamb. Simply follow the same recipe, but substitute the lamb with your preferred protein alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make the dish completely vegan.

Gluten-Free Alternative

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative. You can use cornstarch or rice flour for example.

Conclusion

This slow-cooked lamb shank recipe is the perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a comforting and delicious dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. So go ahead and give it a try!

FAQ

What are lamb shanks?

Lamb shanks are a cut of meat from the lower section of a lamb’s leg. They are typically slow-cooked to make them tender and flavorful.

How many lamb shanks do I need for this recipe?

This recipe calls for four lamb shanks, which should serve four to six people depending on portion size.

What kind of wine should I use?

For this recipe, we recommend using a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. However, you can use any red wine you prefer.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the lamb shanks first, then add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Cook the lamb shanks and let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use a different type of meat if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and method may need to be adjusted depending on the cut of meat.

What should I serve with lamb shanks?

Lamb shanks go well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad. You could also serve them with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I know when the lamb shanks are done?

The lamb shanks should be cooked until they are fork-tender and the meat is falling off the bone. This typically takes 2-3 hours of simmering on the stove.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover lamb shanks in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the lamb shanks in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes per serving.