Braised Lamb Shanks

Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe with Root Vegetables and Roasted Garlic Cannellini Beans

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Braised Lamb Shanks is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb with a hearty vegetable mix, simmered to perfection. This recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking, transforming tough cuts of meat into tender, fall-off-the-bone delicacies. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in, offering warmth and comfort with every bite.

History

The tradition of braising lamb shanks has roots in various cuisines around the world, from the Mediterranean to the Middle East. This cooking method, which involves slowly cooking meat in liquid, has been used for centuries to tenderize tougher cuts of meat. The specific combination of herbs and vegetables in this recipe adds a unique twist to the classic preparation, making it a beloved dish for many families.

Ingredients

6 lamb shanks
0.33 cup of cooking oil
2 medium-sized white onions, chopped
1 cup of chopped celery
2 carrots, sliced
0.25 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
0.5 tsp of rosemary
1 bay leaf
1 beef bouillon cube
1 cup of boiling water
7.5 oz (213 g) can of tomato sauce
4 tbsp of flour
0.33 cup of water

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large saucepan and brown the shanks in the hot oil.
Remove the shanks.
Add the vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes.
Add the shanks, garlic powder, salt, pepper, rosemary, and bay leaf.
Combine the bouillon cube and boiling water; add it to the meat and vegetable mixture.
Stir in the tomato sauce.
Cover tightly and simmer for about 2 hours or until the shanks are tender.
Stir occasionally.
Remove the bay leaf.
Combine the flour and water; stir it into the mixture, and cook until thickened.

Variations

For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and a splash of red wine to the sauce. For a Middle Eastern flavor, incorporate spices like cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, brown the lamb shanks well before simmering. This step adds depth to the flavor. Always simmer the shanks on low heat to keep the meat tender. If the liquid reduces too much during cooking, add a bit more water or broth to keep the shanks moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the lamb shanks on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a portion of steamed green beans for a complete meal. A side of crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Braising is the key technique used in this recipe, involving cooking the lamb shanks slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of liquid. This method ensures the meat becomes tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lamb shanks are not available, beef shanks can be used as an alternative. Rosemary can be replaced with thyme for a different herbaceous note.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the lamb shanks with fresh chopped parsley or rosemary for a pop of color and freshness. Serve in a deep dish to showcase the succulent meat and rich sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lamb and the hearty sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a little water or broth if necessary to keep the meat moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Braised Lamb Shanks contains approximately 350-400 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the vegetables and tomato sauce. Each serving contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Lamb shanks are a source of saturated fats, but the overall fat content can be managed by trimming excess fat before cooking. The use of cooking oil also adds to the fat content, contributing to a total of about 20-25 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Lamb is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Each serving of this braised lamb shank recipe provides roughly 30-35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and the lamb itself. It's a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve health and metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens like nuts, dairy, and gluten (if gluten-free flour is used for thickening). However, those with specific food sensitivities should adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, Braised Lamb Shanks is a nutritious dish, offering a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that supports overall health while satisfying your taste buds.

Summary

Braised Lamb Shanks is a timeless dish that brings comfort and sophistication to the dinner table. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and versatility, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether on a special occasion or a quiet night in.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting a friend who lived in the countryside. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of braised lamb shanks filled the air. My mouth watered instantly and I knew I had to learn how to make this delicious dish.

My friend, Mrs. Jenkins, was a master in the kitchen. She had learned the recipe from her grandmother who had passed it down through the generations. As I watched her prepare the lamb shanks, I listened intently as she shared the story behind the dish.

She explained that braised lamb shanks were a traditional family recipe that originated from her grandmother's homeland in Greece. The dish was typically made during special occasions and family gatherings. The slow cooking process allowed the meat to become tender and flavorful, making it a favorite among her family and friends.

As Mrs. Jenkins seasoned the lamb shanks with a blend of herbs and spices, she told me about the different techniques she had learned over the years to enhance the flavor of the dish. From searing the meat to deglazing the pan with wine, every step was crucial in creating the perfect braised lamb shanks.

I was mesmerized by her skill and passion for cooking. I watched as she added the lamb shanks to the pot, along with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The sizzling sound of the meat hitting the pan was music to my ears.

As the lamb shanks simmered on the stovetop, Mrs. Jenkins shared with me the importance of patience when braising meat. She explained that the slow cooking process allowed the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and savory sauce that would coat the tender meat.

After hours of simmering, the braised lamb shanks were finally ready. Mrs. Jenkins carefully removed them from the pot and placed them on a platter. The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender, and the aroma was intoxicating.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Mrs. Jenkins shared with me the joy she found in cooking for her loved ones. She explained that food was a way to bring people together and create lasting memories.

I left Mrs. Jenkins' house that day with a full belly and a heart full of gratitude. I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen. From that day on, I would make braised lamb shanks for my family and friends, sharing the love and tradition that had been passed down to me.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect the recipe for braised lamb shanks. I have added my own twist with different herbs and spices, making it my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same – a labor of love that brings people together and creates unforgettable moments.

As I prepare the braised lamb shanks in my own kitchen, I can't help but think of Mrs. Jenkins and the day I first learned how to make this dish. Her passion for cooking and dedication to preserving her family's traditions have inspired me to do the same.

And so, as I take a bite of the tender, flavorful meat, I am transported back to that cold winter day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen. The aroma of braised lamb shanks fills the air once again, and I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and create lasting memories for the future.