THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Dependable Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe
This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners and special gatherings alike. Slow-cooked until tender, the lamb shanks soak up rich flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Dependable Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Rub the lamb shanks with olive oil, then season them generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Place them in a roasting pan and roast until they’re nicely browned, about 30 minutes.
02
Step 2
Once browned, lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). While the oven cools, melt some butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrot, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns golden and soft—around 10 minutes. Stir in a bit of flour and garlic, cooking for another minute to bring out the flavors.
03
Step 3
Pour in the red wine, then add chicken stock, water, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of cinnamon. Give everything a good stir and pour this sauce over the lamb shanks in the roasting pan. Cover the pan loosely with foil so the sauce can thicken a bit as it cooks.
04
Step 4
Pop the pan back in the oven and bake for an hour. After that, flip the lamb shanks over, cover again, and bake for another hour or until the meat is tender and easily pierced with a fork. When they’re done, transfer the shanks to a bowl and cover them with foil to rest for 10 minutes.
05
Step 5
Meanwhile, pour the braising liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, skimming off any fat and allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in some fresh chopped rosemary, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the lamb shanks with the rich pan sauce spooned over the top.
Why you’ll love it
This dish is rich and comforting, with tender meat that falls off the bone. The slow cooking brings out deep, savory flavors that make it perfect for cozy dinners. It’s a reliable meal that impresses without much fuss.
How to serve
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple green vegetable or a fresh salad adds a nice contrast to the rich meat.
Storage & leftovers
Let the dish cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
