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Slow cooker lamb shanks

Slow cooker lamb shanks
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Slow cooker lamb shanks deliver tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone, made effortlessly with simple ingredients and slow simmering. This comforting dish is perfect for any night, allowing rich herbs and spices to meld into a hearty, savory meal suitable for family and entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Lamb and Meat

  • 4 bone-in lamb shanks
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 cup red wine or beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste or 1 cup crushed tomatoes

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Chili flakes or smoked paprika for heat
  • Olives, capers, lemon zest for Mediterranean twist
  • Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, dried apricots for Moroccan flavor
  • Potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms for extra vegetables
  • Balsamic vinegar diluted with water as red wine substitute

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Brown the Lamb: Pat lamb shanks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the lamb on all sides until a deep golden crust forms to lock in flavor and add color.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about five minutes until softened and fragrant, building a savory base for the sauce.
  3. Add Liquids and Herbs: Transfer browned lamb and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Pour in red wine or broth and tomato paste or crushed tomatoes. Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to infuse aromatic freshness.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the lamb is fork-tender. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to retain moisture.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove lamb shanks and herbs from the slow cooker. Optionally simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop to thicken into a luscious sauce. Serve lamb drizzled with sauce for a restaurant-quality experience.

Notes

  • Always brown lamb shanks before slow cooking to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Season lamb generously before cooking for the best taste.
  • Cook on low heat for tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
  • Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently to keep heat and moisture inside.
  • Let lamb rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker lamb shanks, lamb shanks recipe, comfort food, slow cooked lamb, easy lamb recipe, family dinner, Mediterranean lamb

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/slow-cooker-lamb-shanks/