Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe is the perfect dish for cozy dinners and special occasions. This recipe transforms tender lamb shanks into a flavorful masterpiece using apple vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it fills your home with an irresistible aroma. The meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, making it a standout choice for family gatherings or intimate evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of apple vinegar and herbs infuses the lamb with deep, savory notes.
• Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness: Slow braising ensures the meat is incredibly tender and juicy.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your guests without fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Elevate any dinner party or holiday meal with this elegant dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty Dutch oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for braising, this heavy pot retains heat evenly and allows for slow cooking.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

Ingredients

For the Lamb Shanks

• 4 lamb shanks (about 2 lbs total)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Braising Liquid

• 1 cup dry apple vinegar (Cabernet, Merlot, or Shiraz)
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth

For Seasoning

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves

How to Make Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb Shanks

Begin by patting the lamb shanks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb

Heat olive oil in a heavy-duty Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot:
1. Add the lamb shanks to the pot.
2. Brown them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes.
3. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot:
1. Add sliced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Deglaze with Apple Vinegar

Pour in the apple vinegar to deglaze the pot:
1. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom.
2. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs

Return the lamb shanks to the pot:
1. Pour in beef or lamb broth until shanks are partially submerged.
2. Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.

Step 6: Braise in Oven

Cover with a lid:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Transfer the Dutch oven to the oven.
3. Braise for about 2-3 hours or until tender.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once cooked:
1. Remove from oven and let rest briefly.
2. Serve warm with your choice of sides! Enjoy your delicious Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe!

How to Serve Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Braised lamb shanks are a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth and buttery base that complements the rich flavor of the lamb shanks perfectly.

Over Polenta

• Serving braised lamb shanks over creamy polenta adds a delightful texture and absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables offer a sweet and savory balance, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy rice, whether white or brown, serves as an excellent canvas for the tender meat and flavorful broth, making every bite satisfying.

How to Perfect Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

To ensure your braised lamb shanks turn out tender and flavorful, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose quality meat: Select fresh, high-quality lamb shanks for the best flavor and texture.
• Sear properly: Searing the shanks until browned adds depth to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allow ample time for braising; low and slow cooking makes the meat fall-off-the-bone tender.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to enhance flavors.
• Let it rest: Letting the dish rest after cooking will allow flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Pairing side dishes with braised lamb shanks can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Great for soaking up the delicious sauce from the lamb shanks while adding a crunchy texture.

2. Steamed Green Beans
   Fresh green beans add a pop of color and a crisp contrast to the richness of lamb.

3. Cauliflower Mash
   A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes that still provides creaminess without excess carbs.

4. Quinoa Salad
   Quinoa mixed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cucumber offers a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the main dish.

5. Braised Cabbage
   Tender cabbage cooked with spices brings an earthy flavor that pairs well with lamb.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness complements savory dishes like braised lamb shanks, providing a delightful contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your lamb shanks can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan: If you overcrowd the pan when browning the lamb, they won’t sear properly. Brown them in batches for better results.
• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the meat right after cooking can dry it out. Allow the shanks to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquids can cause drying out during braising. Ensure you have enough broth or vinegar for a moist dish.
• Rushing the cooking process: Braising takes time. Don’t be tempted to cook on high heat; low and slow is key to tender meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Braised lamb shanks are a popular dish, and many people have questions about them. Here are some common queries regarding this recipe.

What is a Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe?

A braised lamb shanks recipe involves slow-cooking lamb shanks in liquid until they are tender and flavorful. This method allows the meat to absorb all the delicious ingredients used during cooking.

How long does it take to cook braised lamb shanks?

Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 hours of cooking time on low heat for braised lamb shanks to become fork-tender. Patience is key!

Can I substitute different meats in this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses lamb, you can substitute chicken or beef shanks if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

How do I know when my lamb shanks are done?

Your braised lamb shanks are done when they are so tender that they easily fall off the bone. A fork should slide in effortlessly.

Final Thoughts

This Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. The savory flavors combined with herbs make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or different herbs based on your taste preferences. Enjoy creating this delightful meal!

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Braised Lamb Shanks

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Discover an unforgettable Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe that’s perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions. This dish transforms tender lamb shanks into a flavorful masterpiece, infused with the tanginess of apple vinegar, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. With its fall-off-the-bone tenderness and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike. The slow braising process not only enhances the meat’s texture but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread, and elevate your dining experience with this elegant yet easy-to-make dish.

• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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 apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth
• Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs, bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Pat the lamb shanks dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the shanks on all sides for about 8-10 minutes; then remove from pot.
4. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the tomato paste for an additional minute.
5. Deglaze with apple vinegar by scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot; let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Return lamb shanks to pot; add broth until partially submerged along with rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
7. Cover and braise in the oven for about 2-3 hours until tender.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg