Slow-Cooked Perfection: Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Photo byAngie Bright

When you're in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal, braised lamb shanks are a perfect choice. There's something incredibly satisfying about slow-cooked lamb that melts off the bone, bathed in rich, flavorful broth. This dish is a showstopper for any dinner table, ideal for cozy evenings or special gatherings when you want to impress without too much fuss.

The key to a fantastic lamb shank lies in the long, slow braise that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with deep, savory flavors. Whether you're serving it over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or parsnip purée, the dish brings an elegance and warmth that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Lamb shanks are the lower part of the leg, which makes them a tougher cut. But when cooked slowly in a Dutch oven, their tough fibers break down into a silky texture that's irresistibly tender. The combination of fresh vegetables, rich tomato paste, and a bottle of robust red wine creates a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, giving this dish a truly exquisite flavor.

Recipe: Braised Lamb Shanks

Ingredients:

• 2 medium carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 medium onion
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 lamb shanks (about 2 to 2 1/4 lbs total)
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
• 1 6-oz can of tomato paste
• 1 bottle of full-bodied Italian red wine
• A small bunch of fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, parsley, and 2 bay leaves tied together with kitchen string

Instructions:

1. Peel the carrots and onion, trim their ends, and dice them into medium-sized pieces. Set aside the diced vegetables in a bowl.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
3. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Liberally salt and pepper the lamb shanks and place them in the pot to brown. Rotate them with kitchen tongs until they develop a deep crust. Once browned, transfer the lamb shanks to a bowl, allowing the juices to collect.
4. Lower the heat to medium and add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and stir. Cover the pot and let the vegetables cook for about five minutes, allowing them to release their liquids.
5. Remove the lid and continue stirring the vegetables frequently until they turn a deep golden brown. This process may take 20 to 30 minutes. If they start to burn, lower the heat.
6. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan, add the tomato paste in the center, and cook for about five minutes until it turns a deep, rich color. Stir the paste into the vegetables.
7. Add the smashed garlic cloves and the tied bundle of fresh herbs. Then, return the lamb shanks along with their collected juices to the pot.
8. Pour in the bottle of red wine and add enough water to fully cover the lamb shanks. Cover the pot with a lid and heat on the stove until the liquid becomes very hot.
9. Transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven and braise the lamb for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. At the halfway point, flip the lamb shanks over and add more water if necessary. Cover and return to the oven until the lamb is tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
10. Once done, remove the lamb from the braising liquid. Serve the tender lamb shanks over a bed of mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or parsnip purée. Add a little horseradish for an extra kick, if desired.

The Richness of Lamb Shanks

This braised lamb shanks recipe is perfect for a family meal or a dinner party. It takes time, but the process is simple and the payoff is well worth it. As the shanks slow-cook, the wine reduces, intensifying the flavors and creating a sauce that's earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet. The vegetables break down into a delicious base, and the herbs bring an aromatic depth to every bite.

Braised lamb shanks are a testament to the magic of slow cooking. With minimal effort, this dish becomes tender, flavorful, and irresistible. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you'll have a meal that's both comforting and impressive—a perfect dish to bring warmth to your table.

Sources:

• Epicurious - Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe
• Bon Appetit - Slow Braised Lamb Shanks
• Serious Eats - Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine