Description
Braised Lamb Shanks offer a hearty and comforting meal with tender, slow-cooked lamb infused with aromatic herbs and rich tomato flavors, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 4 lamb shanks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Others
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
Herbs and Spices
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Season the Lamb: Generously season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Lamb Shanks: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
- Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Herbs: Stir in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Return Lamb and Braise: Place the lamb shanks back into the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, then transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C).
- Cook Until Tender: Braise in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the lamb is fork-tender and falling off the bone.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaves before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, polenta, or creamy risotto for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, polenta, or creamy risotto to complete the dish.
- For enhanced flavor, prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
