Are you in the mood for a comforting and mouth-watering meal perfect for chilly days or special gatherings? Look no further than this Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks recipe. Slow-cooked in rich, aromatic herbs and spices, these tender lamb shanks are a true showstopper, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will make any dinner memorable. Packed with hearty flavors and easy to prepare in your slow cooker or crock pot, this dish allows the lamb to absorb each seasoning, delivering incredible taste with every bite.
What is this Slow Cooked Lamb shank recipe?
Slow-cooked lamb shanks are a classic dish that combines the beauty of tender lamb with a blend of rich, savory flavors. The lamb shanks are braised in red wine, beef broth, and fragrant herbs, resulting in luscious, fork-tender meat that falls off the bone. This recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs, as it’s straightforward, yet yields an impressive result. Whether for a family gathering or a special occasion, this lamb shank recipe will impress.
Table of Contents
Recipe Card
Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks
Description: Tender lamb shanks slow-cooked with red wine, garlic, rosemary, and a medley of herbs for an effortlessly flavorful dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 lamb shanks
- Calories: 490 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb shanks (approximately 1 lb each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine (choose a rich, bold variety)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Sear the Lamb Shanks:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until golden brown. Transfer the shanks to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add the chopped carrots and celery and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Add Liquids and Herbs:
Pour the red wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes before adding the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, then drizzle the mixture over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the lamb shanks are tender and falling off the bone.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the lamb shanks and place them on a serving plate. Strain the cooking liquid to remove any solid pieces, then drizzle it over the lamb. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Serving Size: 1 lamb shank with sauce
- Calories: 490 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive and delicious dish.
- Rich Flavor: Slow cooking allows the lamb to absorb all the aromatic flavors of red wine, herbs, and vegetables.
- Perfect for Gatherings: The tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks make an elegant dish that is ideal for special dinners or holidays.
- Versatile Cooking Options: You can prepare this dish in a slow cooker, crock pot, or oven for ultimate flexibility.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Lamb Shanks: Lamb shanks are ideal for slow-cooking recipes. When slow-cooked, they turn incredibly tender and rich in flavor. If you don’t have lamb shanks, try substituting them with beef shanks.
- Red Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. A bold, dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon works best, but you can substitute with beef broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are timeless herbs that perfectly complement the flavor of lamb. Feel free to add bay leaves for an extra layer of aroma.
- Beef Broth: Adds richness to the sauce. You can also use vegetable or chicken broth if needed.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks (Step-by-Step)
- Prepare and Sear: Season the lamb shanks well and sear them until golden brown. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for added depth.
- Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour red wine into the pan to deglaze, capturing all those tasty browned bits that will enrich the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Add the beef broth, tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker on low heat for about 8 hours, allowing the lamb to become incredibly tender and flavorful.
Expert Tips for Success
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step! This adds a caramelized crust to the lamb, which boosts the overall flavor.
- Use a Bold Red Wine: A bold wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the lamb perfectly, adding depth and richness to the sauce.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low for an extended period is the secret to achieving that fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
- Strain the Sauce: For a smooth, elegant presentation, strain the cooking liquid before serving over the lamb.
Variations and Customizations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like bay leaves or oregano to suit your taste.
- Add Vegetables: Include root vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, or turnips for an even heartier dish.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika for a slight kick.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the lamb and sauce for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in a low oven. Add a bit of broth or water to the sauce to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of couscous to complete your meal. A fresh green salad or crusty bread also makes an excellent accompaniment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cook lamb shanks in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and follow the same steps, using a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Cook for about 3 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Q: What’s the best wine to use for lamb shanks?
A: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah works best as they add depth without overpowering the dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Absolutely! Slow-cooked lamb shanks taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat before serving.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce?
A: To thicken the sauce, transfer it to a saucepan after cooking and simmer until reduced. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the simmering sauce.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks recipe, here are a few more hearty slow cooker recipes to try:
- Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Garlic and Rosemary Slow-Cooked Leg of Lamb
- Braised Short Ribs in Red Wine Sauce
Conclusion
This Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that combines rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Perfect for any special occasion or comforting meal, these lamb shanks are sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and experience the deep flavors of this delicious, slow-cooked delight!
Give this recipe a try, and savor the rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors of these Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks! They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we can’t wait to see your delicious take on this comforting lamb dish!