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Rustic Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks

A comforting dish featuring tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy, perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces lamb shanks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 pieces carrots, sliced
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 cup red wine Can be replaced with more broth or apple cider.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 pieces bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish Adds a touch of color and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by patting the lamb shanks dry and seasoning them with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the lamb shanks on all sides until beautifully browned (about 4-5 minutes).
  3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
  2. Add the broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir until combined.
  3. Place the lamb shanks in a slow cooker (or a large pot for stovetop cooking). Pour the vegetable mixture over the shanks, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. For slow cooker: Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. For stovetop: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.
Finishing Touches
  1. Remove the shanks from the cooker and let them rest for a few minutes.
  2. If a thicker gravy is desired, simmer the cooking liquid in the skillet until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving
  1. Ladle the rich herbed gravy over the lamb shanks, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy the compliments!

Notes

For extra tender meat, soak lamb in a mixture of milk and spices overnight. A Dutch oven can be used instead of a slow cooker, following stovetop instructions.