Juicy and Tender Lamb Shanks: Try Our Red Wine Recipe Today

Welcome food lovers! Are you in search of a hearty meal to warm your heart and bring comfort to your soul? Look no further, for I have the perfect recipe that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your appetite.

Introducing my Red Wine Braised Lamb Shanks recipe, a dish that combines the rich, succulent flavors of lamb with the bold notes of red wine. This dish may take a bit more time to prepare but is well worth the investment. Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe places tender lamb shanks in a deep sauce infused with garlic, bay leaves, fresh thyme, carrots, onions, and dry red wine.

This recipe is perfect for entertaining guests or for those cozy nights at home. It serves as an excellent example of what happens when you match top-quality ingredients with expert cooking techniques.

So why wait? Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds into another realm. Trust me; your stomach (and those around you) will thank you for it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lamb Shanks With Red Wine
Lamb Shanks With Red Wine

If you are looking for a comforting and hearty meal, then look no further than this wine-braised lamb shanks recipe. This dish is the perfect balance of tender meat and bold flavors, making it the ideal meal for any occasion.

One of the reasons why you’ll love this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t have to be an experienced chef to whip up a batch of these delectable lamb shanks. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal on your table in no time.

Another reason why this recipe is so great is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve these lamb shanks with virtually anything, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes. The rich and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes, so you can mix and match to your heart’s content.

But perhaps the best reason of all to love this recipe is the taste. The slow-cooked lamb is incredibly tender and succulent, while the wine-infused sauce adds a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some lamb shanks and a bottle of red wine, and get ready to experience culinary bliss with this amazing recipe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need something comforting to eat on a cold night, this dish is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredient List

“Savor the richness of our lamb shanks with red wine.”

Ingredients for Lamb Shanks with Red Wine Recipe

  • 4 lamb shanks, about 1 1/2 lbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 medium-sized carrots, roughly chopped
  • 2 celery ribs, roughly chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups dry red wine (use a rich red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel)
  • 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
  • 2 bay leaves
  • A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary
  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning blend
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, and they make a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for fall or winter.

The Recipe How-To

“This savory dish will make your taste buds dance with delight.”

Now, let’s dive into the recipe itself. This red wine braised lamb shanks dish is a flavorful and hearty meal perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening. The combination of red wine, herbs, and tender lamb shanks will leave you wanting more.

Ingredient List:

  • 4 lamb shanks
  • 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp. flour
  • 1 1/2 cups dry red wine
  • 1 onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
  • 2 carrots, roughly chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 tsp. dried marjoram
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

How to Cook Lamb Shanks:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

  2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat butter over medium-high heat until melted.

  3. Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

  4. Sear the lamb in the hot butter until browned on all sides – about 10 minutes.

  5. Once seared well, remove them from the pot and keep aside in a separate dish.

  6. Add onions, carrots, celery to the same pot you seared the lamb and sauté for about 10 minutes over medium heat.

  7. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

  8. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir together for about a minute.

  9. Slowly pour in red wine while whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce that coats everything in the pot evenly.

  10. Add bay leaves, thyme, marjoram and mix well with a wooden spoon.

  11. Allow sauce to come to boil then add back the lamb shanks along with any juices accumulated in the dish.

  12. Cover the pot and put it in the oven to braise for 1 1/2 – 2 hours or until lamb is fork-tender.

  13. Carefully remove the pot from the oven and check if the lamb falls off the bone with ease.

  14. You can choose to serve the lamb shanks as is or put them aside to reduce sauce further for a richer flavor.

Tips for Perfect Results:

  • Keep an eye on your lamb shanks in the last 30 minutes of slow cooking to avoid overcooking.
  • A smaller pot may cause the liquid not to reduce as much, so use an appropriate size Dutch oven.
  • If you don’t have a Dutch oven, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours on low heat.

Now that you have braised red wine lamb shanks recipe at hand, it’s time to gather your ingredients, pour yourself a glass of your favorite red wine (and be sure to save some for the dish), and get started on creating a delicious meal that

Substitutions and Variations

“Melt-in-your-mouth lamb shanks that are worth every bite.”

Cooking is an art, and it’s all about experimenting with different ingredients to create something new and exciting. In this recipe, there is certainly room to experiment with substitutions and variations.

If you don’t have dried marjoram, fresh oregano or thyme can be used instead. You can also use other herbs such as rosemary or sage for additional flavor depth.

If you don’t have a dry red wine, you can use a rich red wine, which will add more depth of flavor to the dish. If you don’t want to use wine at all, beef stock or even vegetable stock would work just fine.

To make the recipe more budget-friendly, you can use lamb chops instead of lamb shanks. Although this won’t create the same “fall off the bone” effect that the shanks do, it will still be delicious.

For an extra savory twist, try adding some port wine to the red wine sauce while cooking. This will add a sweet and fruity flavor that will complement the richness of the lamb perfectly.

Finally, if you’re looking for a versatile meat choice but still want a roast packed with flavor depth and tenderness reminiscent of lamb shanks, try substituting in slow-roasted lamb shoulder instead. This roast still delivers on juicy meat that falls apart beautifully similar to braised lamb and pairs superbly well alongside the delectable red wine sauce.

Substitutions and variations are one of the things that make cooking fun! So feel free to mix things up until you find your favorite combination.

Serving and Pairing

“This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner for two.”

Once the lamb shanks with red wine are ready, they are best served alongside a rich and creamy side dish. Mashed potatoes or polenta are great options to soak up the delicious red wine sauce. You can also add some steamed vegetables like green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts to complete the dish.

When it comes to wine pairing, a bold and full-bodied red wine will complement the rich and savory flavors of the lamb shank. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah will do wonders to bring out the meaty notes of the dish. For a sweeter touch, you can opt for a Port wine that will go perfectly with the strong and robust flavors of the red wine braised lamb shanks.

Overall, this dish is perfect for an elegant dinner party, but it is also simple enough to enjoy on a cozy weeknight in with loved ones. A slow-cooked lamb shank braised in red wine works well in any season and for every occasion. Pair it with your favorite sides and drinks, and have yourself a delightful culinary experience!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

“Indulge in the scrumptious flavors of our lamb shanks and red wine.”

As with many braised dishes, this lamb shanks with red wine recipe can be made ahead of time, which makes it an excellent choice for entertaining. In fact, it tastes even better when reheated! This means you can prepare it a day or two in advance and then reheat it just before serving.

To make ahead, let the lamb shanks cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a Dutch oven or slow cooker over low heat until heated through.

When reheating, make sure to add a little bit of liquid (such as beef stock) to prevent the lamb from drying out. You can also add extra vegetables and herbs if desired.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them over low heat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Overall, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions because it can easily be made ahead of time and reheated with great results. The flavor only gets better as it sits, so don’t hesitate to make extra and save some for later!

Tips for Perfect Results

“The perfect dish to warm up on a chilly winter evening.”

To achieve the perfect red wine braised lamb shanks, you have to follow some tips that will help you enhance the flavor and ensure great results. Here are some tips for making a luscious red wine sauce and perfectly tender braised lamb shanks:

1. Choose the best lamb shanks: When selecting your lamb shanks, pick shanks from the back of the leg; they have plenty of meat and flavor.

2. Sear lamb shanks first: Searing the lamb shanks creates a caramelized crust on the outside of the meat, which adds texture and locks in moisture.

3. Use dry red wine: The wine needs to be big, rich, and bold; choose a dry red wine that you would also like to drink.

4. Add herbs according to your preference: The recipe calls for dried marjoram, bay leaf, fresh thyme, and fresh parsley. However, you are free to adjust according to your preference.

5. Braise slowly: Slow-cooking is the key to creating meltingly tender braised lamb shanks. Low heat helps break down the collagen in the meat.

6. Let it rest before serving: After cooking, let the shanks rest for at least 10 minutes for juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

7. Use a Dutch oven or slow cooker: A heavy-duty Dutch oven or slow cooker works best in braising lamb shanks as they distribute heat evenly.

8. Make-ahead tip: Lamb shanks can be made up to two days ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve for easy entertaining.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making an unforgettable red wine braised lamb shank!

FAQ

Before concluding this recipe, let’s go through some of the most frequently asked questions. These will help you have a better understanding of cooking lamb shanks with red wine and its variations. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, you are sure to find these FAQs helpful. So, let’s get started!

Does red wine go with lamb shanks?

When it comes to pairing wine with Braised Lamb Shanks, I’d recommend opting for a rich red wine. Wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a Northern Rhône Syrah, Amarone, Bordeaux, or Shiraz would be perfect. Lamb Shank has a much stronger and gamier taste than lamb chops or the loin, so it needs a wine that can complement its robust flavor.

What wine is best for lamb shanks cooking?

When it comes to pairing wines with lamb shanks, it’s best to opt for bold and robust options that can handle the gamey flavors. Classics, like cabernet sauvignon, grenache and shiraz are all reliable choices. However, if you’re eager to try something new, why not explore some lesser-known varieties like carménère, nero d’Avola or primitivo? These wines offer complexity and depth that can make for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Is red wine good to cook lamb?

When it comes to roasted lamb dishes like leg of lamb, lamb cutlets, or rack of lamb, there are a plethora of red wines that complement it perfectly. If you’re serving lamb cooked to medium-rare, then go for the classic, subtle notes of Pinot noir. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, bolder red wines will also work splendidly.

What is the best red wine to cook lamb in?

When it comes to pairing wine with lamb, it’s essential to find the perfect match. For a tender rump or rack of lamb, Bordeaux reds are a classic choice. However, if you’re cooking up a hearty, slow-cooked shoulder, the robust Malbec or Rioja would be a better option. If you’re serving lamb in casseroles, give the Côtes du Rhônes or Rioja Crianza a go. And, if your lamb dish has some spice, consider a glass of Riesling to help balance the flavors.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this lamb shanks with red wine recipe is the perfect addition to any dinner table. The slow cooking process allows for all of the delicious flavors to meld together and create a rich, tempting sauce that will leave you wanting more. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Whether you are looking to impress guests at a dinner party or just want to treat your family to a special meal, this dish is sure to please.

So why not give this recipe a try? With its tender meat and velvety wine sauce, it’s hard to resist. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and how satisfying it is to eat. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of your favorite red wine for the ultimate dining experience. Trust me, once you savor the succulent flavors of these slow-cooked lamb shanks braised in red wine sauce, you’ll never want to go back to anything else. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients now and get ready for your taste buds to be transported to nirvana!

Lamb Shanks With Red Wine

Lamb Shanks With Red Wine Recipe

This is one of my favorite lamb recipes, from Craig Claiborne's New York Times International Cookbook. I have adapted it slightly to my taste. It is easily prepared and always well received.
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Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 2 hrs
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Calories 830.5 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lamb shanks
  • 3 tablespoons flour (I prefer Wondra.)
  • salt & freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 cups finely chopped yellow onions
  • 1 cup finely chopped deveined celery
  • 1 cup finely chopped carrot
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 cup dry red wine (drinkable)
  • 2 sprigs fresh parsley
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried marjoram

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Rub the shanks with flour, seasoned with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the butter and oil in a heavy skillet.
  • Brown the shanks on all sides and transfer to a casserole.
  • To the same skillet, add the onion and cook, stirring, until wilted.
  • Add the carrot, celery and garlic and cook briefly.
  • Stir in the wine and pour the mixture over the shanks.
  • Add the remaining ingredients and season to taste.
  • Cover tightly and bake one and one-half to two hours, or until fork tender.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 466gCalories: 830.5kcalCarbohydrates: 15.8gProtein: 73gFat: 46.3gSaturated Fat: 18.3gCholesterol: 257.4mgSodium: 223.3mgFiber: 2.6gSugar: 4.9g
Keyword < 4 Hours, Easy, Lamb/Sheep, Meat
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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