Herb-Infused Braised Lamb Shanks with Rich Tomato Broth

Braising lamb shanks is a timeless culinary tradition, perfect for transforming this humble cut of meat into a tender, flavorful dish. This recipe combines aromatic herbs with a rich tomato broth, infusing the lamb with deep, savory flavors that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup beef broth (for deglazing)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s ready for slow cooking.
2. Season and Sear the Lamb Shanks: Generously season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, ovenproof pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides until they develop a rich, golden crust. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce.
5. Build the Braising Liquid: Stir in the remaining 2 cups of beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh thyme, and chopped rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Braise the Lamb Shanks: Return the browned lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them into the broth. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the lamb shanks braise for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
7. Finish and Serve: Once the lamb shanks are fully cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the lamb shanks hot, spooning the rich tomato broth over them.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Conclusion: This herb-infused braised lamb shanks recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. The long, slow braise allows the lamb to soak up the robust flavors of the tomato broth and herbs, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for savoring every bite. Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to make the most of the flavorful sauce. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends for a truly comforting dining experience.