Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy

Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of lamb with the sweet and tangy flavors of Dr. Pepper. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

The combination of Dr. Pepper and lamb may seem unusual, but it actually dates back to the 1970s when chefs started experimenting with using soda in savory dishes. The sweetness of the Dr. Pepper helps to balance out the richness of the lamb, creating a delicious and complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
2 x 3.5 lb (1.59 kg) lamb shanks (trimmed of as much fat as possible)
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 can regular Dr. pepper, not diet
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) diced tomatoes
0.5 cup finely chopped celery
1 packet dry taco seasoning mix
0.33 cup chopped fresh cilantro, packed

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large pressure cooker over medium-high heat and brown the lamb on all sides. Set it aside.
Saute the onion, cilantro, and garlic.
Stir in the cola, undrained tomatoes, celery, and taco seasoning mix.
Add the rack.
Use the foil helper handles to lower the lamb into the cooker.
Lock the lid in place and cook for 25 – 30 minutes or until it is done to the desired finish.
Use the natural release method.

Variations

For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
You can also add some chopped carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the lamb shanks before cooking them in the pressure cooker to seal in the juices and add flavor.

- Use regular Dr. Pepper, not diet, for the best results.

- Be sure to use a pressure cooker for this recipe to ensure that the lamb shanks are tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting and delicious meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a pressure cooker to cook the lamb shanks quickly and efficiently.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have lamb shanks, you can use lamb chops or beef short ribs instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lamb shanks up to a day in advance and reheat them before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

450 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

20g per serving

Proteins

45g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains celery.

Summary

This dish is high in protein and fats, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Summary

Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy is a delicious and unique dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of sweet Dr. Pepper and savory lamb creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Try this recipe for your next special occasion or cozy night in.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a cold winter day, and I was rummaging through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the floor. Curious, I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks with Pan Gravy.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of sweet Dr. Pepper and savory lamb intrigued me. I knew I had to give it a try. The recipe was simple, with just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. It seemed like the perfect meal to warm us up on a chilly evening.

I remembered that my grandmother had a friend who used to make the most delicious lamb dishes, so I decided to give her a call. Mrs. Jenkins was delighted to hear from me and happily shared her secrets for making the perfect Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks.

She told me that the key to the dish was to sear the lamb shanks in a hot pan until they were golden brown on all sides. This would seal in the juices and create a delicious caramelized crust. Then, she added in a can of Dr. Pepper and some spices, and let it simmer on the stove for a few hours until the meat was tender and falling off the bone.

As the lamb cooked, the Dr. Pepper reduced down into a rich, sweet sauce that was perfect for spooning over the meat. Mrs. Jenkins also taught me how to make a simple pan gravy using the drippings from the lamb, flour, and a bit of water. It was the perfect finishing touch to the dish.

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. I gathered all the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. The scent of the lamb searing in the pan filled the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of the Dr. Pepper. I knew this was going to be a meal to remember.

After a few hours of simmering, the lamb shanks were finally done. I carefully removed them from the pan and placed them on a serving platter. The meat was so tender and flavorful, I couldn't wait to dig in.

I ladled some of the pan gravy over the lamb and took my first bite. The combination of the sweet Dr. Pepper and savory lamb was divine. The meat practically melted in my mouth, and the sauce was the perfect accompaniment. I knew I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe.

I couldn't wait to share it with my family. When they sat down to dinner that evening, their eyes lit up at the sight and smell of the Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks. With each bite, they moaned in delight, savoring the unique flavors of the dish.

From that day on, Dr. Pepper Lamb Shanks became a favorite in our household. I made it regularly, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit our tastes. It was a dish that brought us together, filling our home with warmth and comfort.

As I look back on that cold winter day when I found the recipe, I am grateful for the serendipitous discovery. It has become a cherished part of our family's culinary repertoire, a reminder of the joy and connection that comes from sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. And for that, I am truly thankful.