Rustic Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks in a Rich Herbed Gravy

Rustic slow-cooked lamb shanks are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. This recipe features tender lamb shanks simmered in a rich herbed gravy, resulting in meat that falls off the bone and a sauce that complements the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pan and brown the lamb shanks on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
4. Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Transfer the vegetables and lamb shanks to a slow cooker.
6. Add beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is tender.
8. Serve the lamb shanks with the rich herbed gravy.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes a total of approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes to prepare and cook, including 15 minutes of prep time.

Variations

• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
• Vegetable Additions: Consider adding mushrooms or parsnips for additional depth and texture.
• Different Proteins: Substitute beef shanks or osso buco for a different take on this hearty dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can pressure cook the lamb shanks for about 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
2. What kind of red wine should I use?
   Use a dry red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for the best flavor.
3. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, ensure the beef broth is gluten-free and you can skip the red wine or use a gluten-free alternative.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
5. What can I serve with lamb shanks?
   Mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread pair well to soak up the gravy.
6. How do I know when the lamb is tender?
   The lamb shanks should easily fall off the bone when cooked properly.
7. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the cooked lamb shanks in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
8. What if I don’t have beef broth?
   You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute.
9. How can I thicken the gravy?
   If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the gravy while heating.
10. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
    Yes, fresh vegetables are ideal for this recipe and provide better flavor.

Conclusion

Rustic slow-cooked lamb shanks in a rich herbed gravy is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and memorable meal that highlights the richness of lamb paired with aromatic herbs. Enjoy the tender meat and delicious gravy as you gather around with loved ones.

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