Cartwright Kitchens Braised Lamb Shanks

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Lamb Shanks

• Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
• Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
• Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Build the Braising Sauce

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
• Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add the stock, diced tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, smoked paprika, cumin, and cinnamon (if using). Stir to combine.

4. Braise the Lamb Shanks

• Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
• Braise for 2 ½ to 3 hours, turning the shanks halfway through, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

5. Reduce the Sauce

• Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and cover with foil to keep warm.
• Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat and simmer the sauce until thickened to your liking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Plate each lamb shank and spoon the rich sauce over the top.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

Tips for Perfect Braised Lamb Shanks

• Make Ahead: Braised lamb shanks taste even better the next day. Reheat gently in the sauce for an stress-free meal.
• Adjusting Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar at the end to balance the flavors.
• Slow Cooker Option: Follow steps 1-3, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
• Buttered noodles or polenta
• Honey glazed carrots or roasted winter vegetables
• Crusty bread for dipping

Rich, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, Cartwright Kitchens Braised Lamb Shanks are a winter classic that brings warmth and indulgence to your table. Perfect for savoring every bite on a cozy evening!