Braised Lamb Shanks

AmericanLambIntermediate110 minBy Northstar

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • 0.3 cup olive oil
  • 4 whole lamb shanks (about 8 oz each)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cup yellow onion, medium dice
  • 1 cup carrots, medium dice
  • 1 cup celery, medium dice
  • 2 tbsp garlic, chopped
  • 3 whole bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 lb new potatoes, quartered
  • 2 qts lamb or dark stock
  • 0.3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large braising pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Dredge in the flour, coating all sides.

  3. 3

    When the oil is hot, sear the shanks for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until very brown. Remove and set aside.

  4. 4

    Add the onions to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the celery and carrots and cook for 1 minute more. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. 5

    Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.

  6. 6

    Deglaze the pan with the red wine, scraping the bottom and sides to loosen browned bits.

  7. 7

    Add the potatoes and stock. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Add the lamb shanks back to the pot.

  8. 8

    Cook uncovered for 1 to 1½ hours, basting the shanks often, until the sauce is stew-like and the meat is starting to fall off the bone.

  9. 9

    Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread or over polenta.