Braised Lamb Shank Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight

Braised lamb shank is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness with a rich, savory sauce. Whether you're preparing a special dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this braised lamb shank recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Lamb Shank:

• 2 lamb shanks

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup red wine

• 2 cups beef or lamb broth

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Lamb Shanks

1. Pat the lamb shanks dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.

3. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglazing and Building Flavor

1. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

2. Let the wine simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced.

3. Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth.

4. Add rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, paprika, cumin, and oregano.

Step 4: Braising the Lamb Shanks

1. Return the seared lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the sauce.

2. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.

3. Simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, turning the shanks occasionally, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving

1. Remove the lamb shanks and discard the bay leaves.

2. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes until it thickens.

3. Serve the lamb shanks over mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered rice, generously ladling the sauce over the top.

Tips for the Best Braised Lamb Shank

• Use a good quality red wine for depth of flavor. A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well.

• Low and slow cooking is key to tender lamb shanks.

• Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop over time.

• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

This braised lamb shank recipe is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. With its rich, aromatic flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!