Easy Italian Braised Lamb Shanks

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, this braised lamb shanks recipe is the perfect choice.

With tender, succulent lamb cooked slowly in a savory blend of red wine, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe makes it easy to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

• 6 lamb shanks
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large carrots, cut into 1/4 inch rounds
• 2 onions, chopped10 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
• 5 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

Step 1:Prep the Ingredients

• Start by gathering all your ingredients.
• This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Season the Lamb Shanks

• Sprinkle salt and pepper over the lamb shanks.
• This will add flavor to the meat.

Step 3: Brown the Lamb Shanks

• Heat olive oil in a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• In batches, sear the lamb shanks until they are brown on all sides, which should take about 8 minutes.
• Once browned, set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the carrots, onions, and minced garlic.
• Sauté them over medium heat until they turn golden brown, which will take about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Herbs

• Pour in the red wine, whole peeled tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, and beef broth.
• Stir in the chopped rosemary and thyme.

Step 6: Simmer the Lamb Shanks

• Return the browned lamb shanks to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Then, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.
• Cook for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

Step 7: Reduce the Sauce

• After 2 hours, remove the lid and let the sauce simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
• This will help concentrate the flavors.
• While the sauce reduces, transfer the lamb shanks to a platter and cover them with foil to keep them warm.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

• Continue to boil the sauce until it thickens, which should take about 15 minutes.

Step 9: Serve

• Spoon the rich, flavorful sauce over the lamb shanks and enjoy your delicious meal!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like lamb shoulder or beef shanks, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the meat is well-browned and cooked until tender.

How do I know when the lamb shanks are done?

The lamb shanks are done when the meat is fork-tender and easily falls off the bone. This typically takes about 2 hours of simmering, but check for tenderness as cooking times can vary.