Ingredients:
For the Lamb Shanks:
- 4 lamb shanks (about 1.5 pounds or 680g each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cups red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
For the Gremolata (Optional):
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Season the Lamb Shanks:
- Season the lamb shanks with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Lamb Shanks:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb shanks and sear them on all sides until they are browned. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove the shanks and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes until it’s reduced by about half.
5. Add the Lamb Shanks Back:
- Return the seared lamb shanks to the pot.
6. Add Broth and Herbs:
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Add the fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, and bay leaves.
7. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the lamb shanks simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. The shanks are ready when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone.
8. Prepare the Gremolata (Optional):
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley. This is your gremolata, which adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish.
9. Serve:
- Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and discard the bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs.
- Serve the lamb shanks on a plate or platter, garnished with the gremolata (if using).
Enjoy your tender and flavorful lamb shanks! This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to savor a hearty and comforting meal.