Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

The Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe is a showstopper that will impress your guests and satisfy your family. This dish features tender lamb shanks that fall off the bone, braised in a rich blend of wine, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this recipe brings out deep flavors that are sure to please. The combination of savory ingredients creates a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall-off-the-bone tenderness: The slow braising process ensures the lamb becomes incredibly tender, making it a joy to eat.
• Rich flavors: Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, the sauce complements the lamb perfectly.
• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it over polenta, with mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Impressive presentation: This dish looks stunning on any dining table, making it ideal for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, perfect for slow cooking and braising.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Lamb Shanks

• 4 lamb shanks (about 2 lbs total)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Vegetables

• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Braise

• 1 cup dry red wine (Cabernet, Merlot, or Shiraz)
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. Chop your vegetables as noted in the ingredient list.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb Shanks

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, place the lamb shanks in the pot. Sear them on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom while bringing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs

Return the lamb shanks to the pot. Add beef or lamb broth along with rosemary, thyme, bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 6: Braise in Oven

Cover with a lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise for about 2-3 hours until tender.

Step 7: Serve

Once done, remove from oven. Discard herbs before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Braised Lamb Shanks!

How to Serve Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Serving braised lamb shanks can elevate your meal and impress your guests. The rich flavors and tender meat pair beautifully with various accompaniments.

Pair with Creamy Polenta

• Creamy polenta provides a smooth and comforting base that soaks up the delicious sauce from the lamb shanks.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, add a colorful touch and balance the richness of the dish.

Accompany with Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the savory flavors of braised lamb shanks perfectly.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.

How to Perfect Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Perfecting your braised lamb shanks is essential for achieving tender, flavorful results. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Choose quality lamb: Select fresh, high-quality lamb shanks for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Sear before braising: Browning the lamb shanks in olive oil adds depth and richness to the final dish.
• Use good wine: A dry red wine enhances the sauce’s flavor; choose one you would enjoy drinking.
• Low and slow cooking: Braise on low heat for several hours to ensure the meat becomes fork-tender.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to rest after cooking; this helps redistribute flavors for an even better taste.

Best Side Dishes for Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Completing your meal with side dishes can elevate your braised lamb shanks experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Its lightness contrasts beautifully with the rich lamb, adding freshness to your plate.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes an excellent accompaniment that absorbs flavors well.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini is simple yet adds a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with lamb.
5. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and delicious.
6. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the hearty dish wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your lamb shanks properly can lead to bland meat. Always use salt and pepper generously at every stage of cooking.
• Not browning the meat: Skipping the browning step can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sear the lamb shanks in olive oil until they are golden brown before braising.
• Using low-quality wine: A poor-quality wine can ruin your sauce. Choose a dry red wine that you would enjoy drinking, as it significantly impacts the final taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Placing too many ingredients in the pot can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there is enough space for air circulation by working in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into your lamb shanks too soon can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Allow the shanks to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your braised lamb shanks in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

• Place cooled lamb shanks in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place shanks in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place shanks on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth and warm the shanks for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of wine is best for the Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe?

A good choice includes dry red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz. These wines enhance the richness of the dish without overpowering it.

Can I substitute fresh herbs in this recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have fresh herbs available, you can use dried herbs. Generally, use one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when my lamb shanks are done?

Your braised lamb shanks are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. This usually takes around 2-3 hours of simmering.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your braised lamb shanks a day ahead and reheat them before serving for even better flavor as it allows the spices to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe is an exquisite dish that promises tender, flavorful meat with rich sauce perfect for any occasion. Its versatility means you can customize it with different herbs or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and impress your family or guests with a comforting meal!

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Braised Lamb Shanks

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Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Braised Lamb Shanks, a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience. This recipe features succulent lamb shanks slow-cooked to perfection in a savory blend of red wine, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs. Each bite reveals tender meat that effortlessly falls off the bone, paired beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for soaking up the luscious sauce. Ideal for both special occasions and cozy family dinners, this dish will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 lamb shanks (about 2 lbs total)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup dry red wine (Cabernet, Merlot, or Shiraz)
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth
• Fresh rosemary and thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned on all sides (3-4 minutes each). Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in tomato paste.
5. Deglaze with red wine; scrape up any browned bits while simmering.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot and add broth along with herbs. Bring to a boil.
7. Cover and transfer to the oven; braise for 2-3 hours until fork-tender.
8. Remove from oven; discard herbs and garnish with parsley before serving.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, use high-quality red wine you enjoy drinking. Serve over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for delightful variations.