Savory Slow-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Tomato and Herb Infusion
Indulge in the rich flavors of tender lamb shanks simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. This delightful dish features a harmonious blend of spices, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a sumptuous sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, these lamb shanks are served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant greens, making for an unforgettable meal. Adapted from the cherished New Trim Lamb Shanks recipe in Gabriel Gate's Guide to Everyday Cooking, this version promises a satisfying blend of tradition and innovation.
4
Servings
600
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (divided)
tomato paste
1 teaspoon (for spice mixture)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (for spice mixture)
chili paste
1 teaspoon (optional, for spice mixture)
new trim lamb shanks
4 (frenched)
thyme sprigs
3 (fresh)
white wine
3 tablespoons (for cooking)
beef stock
1.5 cups (for cooking)
roma tomatoes
4 medium (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
salt
to taste (seasoning)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground for seasoning)
parsley or coriander leaves
2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the tomato paste, ground cumin, and chili paste (if using). Mix well to create a flavorful paste.
2
Rub the paste generously over the lamb shanks, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors.
4
Transfer the browned shanks to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, add thyme, white wine, beef stock, chopped tomatoes, and crushed garlic. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Pour the mixture over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker, ensuring the shanks are submerged in the flavorful liquid.
6
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain heat and moisture.
7
Once done, stir in the chopped parsley or coriander just before serving for a fresh touch.
8
Serve warm with creamy mashed potatoes and a side salad for a complete meal, or garnish with homemade gremolata for added zest.
Nutrition Information
37.5g
Fat
45g
Carbs
40g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many servings does this lamb shank recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the estimated calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 600 calories.
How long should I cook the lamb shanks on the low setting?
On the low setting, the lamb shanks should be cooked for 8 to 10 hours.
What is the cooking time if I use the high setting on my slow cooker?
If using the high setting, the lamb shanks will take approximately 4 to 6 hours.
Should I sear the meat before putting it in the slow cooker?
Yes, searing the lamb shanks for 2-3 minutes on each side helps to lock in the flavors.
What ingredients are used for the initial spice rub?
The rub consists of olive oil, tomato paste, ground cumin, and optional chili paste.
What type of tomatoes are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 medium chopped roma tomatoes.
Which liquids are used to create the sauce?
The sauce is made using white wine and beef stock.
Is there an optional ingredient for those who like spice?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of chili paste can be added to the spice mixture if desired.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 40g of protein.
How much fat is in one serving of this dish?
There are 37.5g of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 45g of carbohydrates in each serving.
What type of lamb shanks should I purchase?
The recipe recommends using 4 frenched new trim lamb shanks.
Which fresh herbs are cooked with the meat?
Three fresh thyme sprigs are added to the slow cooker during the simmering process.
What can I use for a fresh garnish at the end?
You can use chopped parsley or coriander leaves just before serving.
Can I lift the lid while the slow cooker is running?
It is recommended to avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain necessary heat and moisture.
What are the suggested side dishes for this meal?
This dish is best served with creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant greens or a side salad.
How many garlic cloves does the recipe require?
The recipe requires 2 crushed garlic cloves.
Is there a specific way to prepare the garlic?
The garlic should be crushed before being added to the skillet and slow cooker.
Can I add extra zest to the finished dish?
Yes, you can garnish the lamb with a homemade gremolata for added zest.
What is the total amount of olive oil needed?
The recipe uses a total of 2 tablespoons of olive oil, divided between the paste and the searing process.
How much beef stock is required for the infusion?
You will need 1.5 cups of beef stock.
What is the origin of this recipe's inspiration?
This version is adapted from the New Trim Lamb Shanks recipe in Gabriel Gate's Guide to Everyday Cooking.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include lamb, slow cooker, comfort food, stew, herbs, and family meal.
How much white wine is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of white wine.
What amount of ground cumin is used in the spice mixture?
One teaspoon of ground cumin is used for the flavorful paste.
Are the lamb shanks submerged in liquid while cooking?
Yes, ensure the shanks are submerged in the mixture of wine, stock, and tomatoes in the slow cooker.
How do I know when the lamb is finished cooking?
The lamb is ready when the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.
What type of salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe suggests using salt to taste and freshly ground black pepper.
Is this recipe considered a hearty meal?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a hearty dinner and comfort food.