Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow-cooked lamb shanks are the epitome of comfort food. The slow cooking process makes the lamb incredibly tender, falling off the bone with every bite. Paired with a flavorful sauce made from red wine, herbs, and vegetables, this dish is the perfect blend of savory and hearty. The preparation is straightforward, and with minimal hands-on time, you can let the slow cooker do all the work, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas as the dish simmers to perfection.

this Recipe

Ingredients

4 lamb shanks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef or lamb broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
In a slow cooker, combine the seared lamb shanks, sautéed vegetables, broth, tomato paste, rosemary, and thyme.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
Once cooked, remove the lamb shanks and strain the sauce if desired. Serve the lamb with the sauce drizzled over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover lamb shanks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may want to add a little extra broth or water to the sauce when reheating to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lamb shanks with other cuts like lamb shoulder or beef shanks, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

2. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef or lamb broth?

Yes, chicken broth is an acceptable substitute, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe without red wine?

Yes, you can omit the red wine and use extra broth or a mix of broth and grape juice as a substitute for a similar depth of flavor.

4. How do I know when the lamb shanks are done?

The lamb is done when it becomes fork-tender and easily falls off the bone, which usually takes about 6-8 hours in the slow cooker.

5. Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the lamb shanks on high heat for 4-5 hours instead of 6-8 hours on low, but the texture may not be as tender.

6. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, additional vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips would complement the dish well.

7. Can I freeze leftover lamb shanks?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked lamb shanks and sauce for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.

8. What should I serve with lamb shanks?

Lamb shanks go well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

9. Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can sear the lamb and prepare the vegetables ahead of time, then refrigerate everything. In the morning, just transfer it to the slow cooker and let it cook.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, remove the lid from the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow it to reduce, or you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) toward the end of the cooking process.

Conclusion

This slow-cooked lamb shanks recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that’s sure to impress. With minimal preparation and a slow-cooking method that ensures maximum flavor and tenderness, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth lamb with a rich, savory sauce that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!