Lamb Shanks in a Slow Cooker: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like a hearty lamb shank. And while there are many ways to prepare this classic dish, one of the easiest and most delicious is in a slow cooker. Not only does this method create tender, fall-off-the-bone meat, but it also allows for a depth of flavor that can’t be achieved with other cooking methods.

To start, it’s important to choose the right cut of lamb shank. Look for shanks that are meaty and well-marbled, as this will ensure a rich and flavorful end result. Then, simply season the shanks with salt and pepper, sear them in a hot pan to create a crispy exterior, and transfer them to a slow cooker along with aromatics like garlic, onion, and herbs. Add a liquid like beef broth or red wine, and let the slow cooker work its magic for several hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

The result is a dish that is both comforting and elegant, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. And with the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s easier than ever to enjoy this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Understanding Lamb Shanks

Lamb shanks are a delicious cut of meat that can be cooked in many ways, but they are particularly well-suited to slow cooking. In this section, I will explain what lamb shanks are, where they come from, and how to choose the best ones for your slow cooker recipe.

What are Lamb Shanks?

Lamb shanks are the lower part of the leg of a lamb, just above the ankle joint. They are a tough cut of meat that requires slow cooking to become tender and flavorful. Lamb shanks are typically sold bone-in, which adds flavor and richness to the dish.

Where do Lamb Shanks come from?

Lamb shanks come from the hind legs of a lamb, which is a relatively lean and muscular part of the animal. This means that lamb shanks require a longer cooking time to break down the tough connective tissue and become tender. Lamb shanks are most commonly sourced from the rear legs of a lamb, but they can also come from the front legs.

Choosing the Best Lamb Shanks

When choosing lamb shanks for your slow cooker recipe, look for shanks that are well-marbled with fat and have a deep red color. The meat should be firm to the touch, but not too hard. Avoid shanks that are pale or have a grayish tint, as this can be a sign of poor quality or spoilage.

In addition to the quality of the meat, consider the size of the shanks when choosing them for your recipe. Larger shanks will take longer to cook and may be harder to fit in your slow cooker, while smaller shanks may not provide enough meat for your recipe. Aim for shanks that are between 1 and 1.5 pounds each, which should provide enough meat for 2-3 servings.

In summary, lamb shanks are a flavorful and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in many ways, but are particularly well-suited to slow cooking. When choosing lamb shanks for your recipe, look for well-marbled meat with a deep red color, and aim for shanks that are between 1 and 1.5 pounds each.

Choosing the Right Slow Cooker

When it comes to cooking lamb shanks in a slow cooker, choosing the right appliance can make all the difference. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a slow cooker:

Size

The size of your slow cooker will depend on how many people you plan to feed. I recommend choosing a slow cooker that is at least 6 quarts in size. This will allow you to cook 4-6 lamb shanks at once, which is enough to serve a family of four.

Shape

Slow cookers come in a few shapes: round ,oval, and rectangular. I prefer oval slow cookers for cooking lamb shanks because they provide more surface area for browning the meat. This helps to enhance the flavor of the lamb and gives it a nice crust.

Temperature Settings

Look for a slow cooker with at least two temperature settings: low and high. Some models also have a “keep warm” setting, which is useful for keeping your lamb shanks warm and tender until you’re ready to serve them.

Features

Here are some additional features to consider when choosing a slow cooker:

• Removable stoneware insert: This makes it easy to clean your slow cooker after use.
• Timer: A timer allows you to set the cooking time and forget about it until your lamb shanks are ready.
• Programmable settings: Some models have programmable settings that allow you to set the cooking time and temperature.
• Lid: Look for a slow cooker with a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture from escaping.

By considering these factors, you can choose a slow cooker that is perfect for cooking delicious and tender lamb shanks.

Preparation of Lamb Shanks

Trimming and Seasoning

I start by trimming any excess fat from the lamb shanks. I leave a little bit of fat on the shanks to add flavor, but too much can make the dish greasy.

Next, I season the shanks with salt and pepper. I like to use a generous amount of both, as the slow cooking process can dull the flavors. I also add some dried herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, for extra flavor.

Browning the Shanks

Before adding the shanks to the slow cooker, I like to brown them on the stove. This step adds depth of flavor and helps to seal in the juices.

To brown the shanks, I heat up some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I then add the shanks and cook for a few minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.

Once the shanks are browned, I transfer them to the slow cooker. I then deglaze the skillet with some red wine or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. I pour this liquid over the shanks in the slow cooker, along with any additional liquid, such as canned tomatoes or chicken broth.

That’s it for the preparation! Now it’s time to let the slow cooker do its magic and transform these lamb shanks into a delicious and tender meal.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks

When it comes to cooking lamb shanks in a slow cooker, having the right ingredients is crucial. Here are the essential ingredients that I use in my recipe:

Herbs and Spices

• Garlic: 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
• Rosemary: 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• Thyme: 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme
• Bay leaves: 2-3 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Liquids

• Red wine: 1 cup of dry red wine
• Beef broth: 2 cups of beef broth
• Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

Vegetables

• Onion: 1 large onion, chopped
• Carrots: 2-3 large carrots, chopped
• Celery: 2-3 stalks of celery, chopped

I find that these ingredients work well together to create a flavorful and tender lamb shank dish. Of course, you can always adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences.

When it comes to the vegetables, I like to chop them into large pieces so that they don’t turn to mush during the slow cooking process. As for the herbs and spices, I recommend using fresh herbs for maximum flavor.

Overall, with these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious slow cooker lamb shank dish.

Cooking Process

Layering Ingredients

To begin cooking lamb shanks in a slow cooker, I start by layering the ingredients in the pot. First, I place the lamb shanks at the bottom of the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly spaced and not touching the sides of the pot.

Next, I add the vegetables, such as carrots, onions, and celery, around the lamb shanks. I prefer to cut the vegetables into large pieces so they don’t turn to mush during the cooking process.

After the vegetables are in place, I add the liquid. I typically use a combination of beef broth and red wine, but you can use any liquid of your choice. The liquid should cover the lamb shanks and vegetables, but not overflow the pot.

Setting the Cook Time

Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, I set the cook time. I usually cook lamb shanks on low heat for 8-10 hours, but you can also cook them on high heat for 4-6 hours.

It’s important not to lift the lid during the cooking process, as this can release heat and extend the cook time.

When the cook time is up, I carefully remove the lamb shanks from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. The vegetables and liquid can be served alongside the lamb shanks or used to make a sauce.

Overall, cooking lamb shanks in a slow cooker is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments

When serving lamb shanks from a slow cooker, it’s important to pair them with the right accompaniments to enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for lamb shanks. They provide a neutral base that complements the rich, savory flavors of the meat.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and onions alongside the lamb shanks is a great way to add some color and flavor to the plate. The caramelized edges of the veggies pair well with the tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
• Couscous: If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving lamb shanks with couscous. The fluffy texture of the couscous contrasts nicely with the chewy meat, and the mild flavor won’t overpower the lamb.

Garnishing

A well-garnished plate not only looks beautiful, but it can also add some extra flavor and texture to the dish. Here are some garnishing ideas for lamb shanks:

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add a pop of color and freshness to the plate. Sprinkle them over the lamb shanks just before serving.
• Citrus zest: Grating some lemon or orange zest over the lamb shanks can add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much zest can be overpowering.
• Gremolata: Gremolata is a mixture of chopped garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. It’s a classic garnish for osso buco, but it works just as well with lamb shanks. Sprinkle it over the meat just before serving for a burst of flavor.

By pairing lamb shanks with the right accompaniments and garnishes, you can elevate this humble cut of meat into a restaurant-worthy dish.

Storage and Reheating

When it comes to storing and reheating your lamb shanks, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that they stay fresh and delicious.

Firstly, make sure to store your leftover lamb shanks in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help to prevent any bacteria from growing and keep your lamb shanks fresh for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating your lamb shanks, there are a few different methods you can use depending on your preference. One option is to reheat them in the slow cooker on low heat for 2-3 hours, adding a little bit of liquid if necessary to prevent them from drying out.

Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes per serving.

It’s important to note that when reheating lamb shanks, you should make sure that they are heated all the way through to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that they are safe to eat.

Overall, by following these simple tips, you can ensure that your lamb shanks stay fresh and delicious, even when reheated.