Braised Lamb Shanks with Red Wine and Herbs
Ingredients:
- 4 Swift Australian Lamb Shanks (approx. 16oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups good quality red wine
- 4 cups beef or lamb stock
- 1 can (14oz) crushed tomatoes
- Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Sear the Shanks: Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until they are golden brown. This locks in the flavor and creates a beautiful crust. Remove from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until they soften and develop some color, about 5-7 minutes.
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Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half to concentrate the flavor.
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Braise the Lamb: Add the beef or lamb stock, crushed tomatoes, and fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and a bay leaf). Return the seared lamb shanks to the pot, making sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
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Slow Cook: Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Allow the lamb to braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, turning the shanks halfway through. The slow cooking will break down the connective tissue, rendering the meat incredibly tender.
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Finish & Serve: Once the lamb is tender and falls off the bone, remove from the oven. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the sauce. Serve the lamb shanks with the braising liquid spooned over, alongside mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or roasted vegetables.
Chef's Tip:
Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing both tenderness and flavor. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or gremolata for brightness and freshness.
This dish brings out the natural richness of the lamb, perfectly complemented by the robust flavors of red wine and herbs. It's a comforting, yet refined, way to showcase the beautiful quality of Swift Australian Lamb Shanks.
