Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy: A Perfect Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, look no further than these Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy! This recipe brings together tender lamb shanks and a rich, savory gravy that’s practically a love letter to your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or want to impress some guests (without the stress), this dish will surely steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank Recipe

Let’s be honest—life can be pretty hectic. Between work, kids, and keeping up with the endless to-do lists, we sometimes neglect the simple joy of a home-cooked meal. That’s where this succulent Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank recipe comes in to save the day! With minimal prep and tons of flavor, you can have a gourmet meal cooking away while you catch up on your favorite show or sip a glass of wine (or two).

The beauty of these lamb shanks is that they benefit from slow cooking, which means you don’t have to hover around the stove. Just let them simmer away, and soon your kitchen will smell like heaven on a rainy day!

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather all the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting dish:

  • 2 lamb shanks (about 2 lbs total)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended!)
  • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf

Slow-Cooking Your Lamb Shanks: Step-by-Step

  1. Season the Shanks: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the lamb shanks. Go ahead—don’t skimp on the seasoning. You want those flavors to shine!

  2. Sear the Lamb: In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 3-4 minutes each. This step seals in the juices and gives your shanks that irresistible color. Set them aside for now.

  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute more.

  4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the flavor lies, my friends!

  5. Combine and Cook: Transfer the vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Finally, nestle the lamb shanks into the pot, cover, and set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.

A little secret: This dish makes for fantastic leftovers! If you happen to have any left (unlikely, but just in case), the flavors deepen even more overnight.

Cooking Tips

  • Let It Sit: After cooking, give the lamb shanks some time to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a more tender bite.
  • Sauce Savvy: If you find your gravy looks a bit too thin, don’t fret! Just pour it into a saucepan and bring it to a slight simmer. A quick thickener, like a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water), can help you achieve that perfect consistency.
  • Perfect Pairing: Serve these lamb shanks alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh, vibrant salad. Your taste buds will thank you!

Personal Anecdote

I first stumbled upon this recipe while searching for something special to serve during a family gathering. You know that feeling when you’re not sure what will impress everyone? Well, these lamb shanks became my go-to dish after the first rave review erupted from a picky eater in the family (yes, the same one who usually just wants pizza)! Now we make this for our holiday dinners, and it’s become a cherished tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute lamb with another meat?
Absolutely! If lamb isn’t your jam, beef shanks or even pork can work in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth for extra moisture.

Can I use dried herbs instead?
Yes, feel free to use dried thyme and rosemary. Just use about a teaspoon of each. Remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so a little goes a long way!


Finally, don’t underestimate the power of this Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank with Herb-Infused Gravy recipe—it turns ordinary days into something extraordinary! Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do the heavy lifting. Before you know it, you’ll be savoring the rewarding flavors of your culinary creation.

So grab your apron, dive into the delightful journey of cooking, and make some memories with loved ones. Happy cooking!


Meta Description

Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy is the perfect comfort dish for busy days. Delicious and easy, this recipe will be your new favorite!

Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Herb-Infused Gravy

A comforting dish featuring tender lamb shanks and a rich, savory herb-infused gravy, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pieces lamb shanks (about 2 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped onion
  • 2 pieces carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional) Highly recommended
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the lamb shanks.
  • In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides for about 3-4 minutes each. Set them aside.
  • In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and carrots until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 more minute.
  • Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  • Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Add the broth, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and nestle the lamb shanks into the pot.

Cooking

  • Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours.

Notes

Let the lamb shanks rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. If the gravy is too thin, thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Herb-Infused Gravy, Lamb Shanks, Slow Cooker

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