Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

These Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks are a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and tender meat, making it the perfect centerpiece for special occasions or cozy nights in. With its aromatic spices and hearty components, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy this comforting meal during family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply when you’re in need of a warm culinary hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of aromatic spices and tender lamb creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can focus on enjoying the cooking process while the shanks braise to perfection.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal that suits any palate.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful presentation makes it a standout dish at any dinner table, sure to leave your guests talking.
• Hearty & Comforting: Perfect for cold winter nights, this recipe warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: This ensures even heat distribution for perfect braising.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring neat cuts.

Ingredients

For the Lamb Shanks

• 4 lamb shanks (about 1600g total for 4 shanks)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For the Vegetables

• 1 1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 2 celery sticks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Braising Liquid

• 1 cup red apple vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground all spice
• 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 bay leaves

For the Broth & Sauce

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 28 oz jar or can of tomato sauce

For Garnishing & Sides

• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 – 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground pepper
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup plain cream cheese

How to Make Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to peel and chop the vegetables so they are ready for cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Lamb Shanks

In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and brown on all sides for about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the browned lamb shanks from the pot. In the same pot, add pearl onions, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the red apple vinegar to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you stir.

Step 5: Add Spices & Broth

Return the lamb shanks to the pot along with dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, all spice, cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon), kosher salt, pepper, bay leaves, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Braise

Bring everything to a simmer. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it braise gently for about 150 minutes until lamb is tender.

Step 7: Prepare Potatoes

While lamb is braising, prepare Yukon gold potatoes by boiling them in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return them to pot.

Step 8: Make Creamy Sauce

In another saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter. Stir in salt, pepper, whole milk, and cream cheese until smooth. Pour over cooked potatoes and mix well.

Step 9: Serve

Once lamb is done braising, remove it from heat. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley alongside creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Serving Greek-style braised lamb shanks can elevate any dinner occasion. With their rich flavors and tender meat, they pair beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance the dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with olive oil and lemon dressing brightens the meal.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Serve warm crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce from the lamb.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with freshly chopped parsley or mint for a burst of color and flavor.

Include Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and hearty side, perfect for balancing the rich lamb.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• An assortment of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and texture to your plate.

Present with Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf complements the flavors of the lamb while soaking up the juices.

How to Perfect Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

To achieve tender and flavorful Greek-style braised lamb shanks, follow these tips for perfection.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled lamb shanks for enhanced flavor and tenderness during cooking.

• Sear Before Braising: Sear the shanks in olive oil until golden brown; this adds depth to the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried ones.

• Cook Low and Slow: Braise at a low temperature for an extended time to ensure the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve your desired flavor profile.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps redistribute the juices for better flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Complement your Greek-style braised lamb shanks with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dining experience.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and oregano.

2. Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes are infused with garlic flavor.

3. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A light salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice; it adds a healthy touch.

4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh crunch that balances the richness of lamb.

5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with fresh herbs makes an easy yet elegant side dish that absorbs all those wonderful juices.

6. Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with lamb dishes.

7. Honey-Roasted Carrots: Sweet carrots roasted in honey bring a caramelized flavor that complements savory meats beautifully.

8. Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: Flavored with spices, nuts, and dried fruits, this pilaf is aromatic and pairs brilliantly with lamb.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose lamb shanks for this recipe. Other cuts may not yield the same tender and flavorful results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season your lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not browning the meat: Failing to sear the lamb shanks properly can result in less depth of flavor. Take your time to brown them well on all sides before braising.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Follow the timing closely. Overcooked lamb will be dry, while undercooked lamb will be tough. Use a meat thermometer if needed.
• Neglecting the resting period: After cooking, let the lamb shanks rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps retain juices and improves tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Freezing Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

• • Duration: These lamb shanks can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20–30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in short bursts until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks that may help clarify your cooking process.

What is the best side dish for Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks?

Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad pair beautifully with these rich lamb shanks. Consider serving with roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Can I use beef instead of lamb?

Yes! Beef shanks can be a great alternative if you prefer beef over lamb. Adjust cooking time as needed since beef may require different timings.

How do I know when my Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks are done?

The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone when it’s fully cooked. A meat thermometer should read at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors often deepen after resting overnight in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you need an alternative, vegetable broth works well too. It will still provide depth without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks are not only comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to fit your family’s tastes!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks, a dish that transforms succulent lamb into a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This comforting recipe features tender shanks braised in a rich blend of aromatic spices and tangy red apple vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this hearty meal pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, making it an impressive centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests.

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Ingredients

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• 4 lamb shanks
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 2 celery sticks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red apple vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground all spice
• 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 28 oz jar or can of tomato sauce
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 – 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground pepper
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup plain cream cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (5–7 minutes). Remove from pot.
3. Sauté pearl onions, celery, and garlic in the same pot until soft (3–5 minutes).
4. Deglaze with red apple vinegar, scraping up browned bits.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot; add spices, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir well.
6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and braise on low heat for about 150 minutes until tender.
7. Meanwhile, boil Yukon gold potatoes until fork-tender; drain and return to the pot.
8. In another saucepan, melt butter; mix in salt, pepper, milk, and cream cheese until smooth. Combine with potatoes.
9. Serve lamb shanks hot garnished with fresh parsley alongside creamy mashed potatoes.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lamb shank with sauce and 1 cup mashed potatoes (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 675
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 145mg