Braised Lamb Shanks with Herb Infusion
A delightful holiday dish featuring tender lamb shanks infused with fresh herbs, perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces lamb shanks (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup red wine Choose a wine you enjoy drinking.
- 2 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
Aromatics and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 pieces carrots, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) to taste Fresh herbs, preferably Add according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large, heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, and brown them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, bay leaves, and fresh herbs, then stir gently.
Braising
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours.
Serving
- Once the lamb is fork-tender, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables.
Notes
If your sauce looks lumpy, it's part of the flavor! Consider serving with crusty bread and olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added flavor. Dried fruits like apricots or prunes can be added for sweetness.