When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to slow-cooked lamb shanks. The tender, fall-off-the-bone meat is a staple of many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – it’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cold winter night. But why stick to just one way of cooking lamb shanks when you can have 18 delicious variations? From classic Mediterranean dishes to international twists, we’ve rounded up our favorite lamb shank recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the rich flavors and aromas of lamb shanks from Greece to India, Morocco to Italy. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, we’ve got you covered with these 18 tender lamb shank recipes for the oven.
Slow-Roasted Garlic and Herb Lamb Shanks
Transform tender lamb shanks into a rich, flavorful dish with the slow-roasting technique, complemented by the pungency of garlic and herbs. This recipe yields fall-off-the-bone results without requiring constant attention.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the smashed garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the browned lamb shanks back into the pot, along with the chicken broth.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 2 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Red Wine Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary
This classic braise recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine and rosemary to create tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks that are perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shanks
– 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside. Add the garlic and rosemary to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the red wine, beef broth, and onion to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the lamb shanks to the pot.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Moroccan-Spiced Lamb Shanks with Apricots
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of lamb shanks with the sweetness of apricots, all wrapped up in a rich Moroccan spice blend. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup apricots, pitted
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add spices, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shanks to pot, add apricots and broth. Cover and transfer to oven.
6. Braise for 2 hours or until tender. Serve with juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Greek-Style Lemon and Oregano Lamb Shanks
Elevate your lamb shank game with this flavorful and aromatic Greek-inspired recipe, where the brightness of lemon and pungency of oregano complement the rich flavor of lamb.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp dried oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lamb shanks to the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove lamb from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Place the lamb shanks in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid.
5. Cook lamb shanks for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and falling off the bone. Serve hot, garnished with fresh oregano leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Balsamic Glazed Lamb Shanks with Root Vegetables
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked lamb shanks smothered in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, paired with tender root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb shanks, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnips to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, beef broth, and honey.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot and pour in the glaze. Cover and transfer to the oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Indian Curry Lamb Shanks with Coconut Milk
Experience the authentic flavors of India with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender lamb shanks with creamy coconut milk and a blend of warming spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Brown the lamb shanks, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook until onions are translucent, about 8 minutes.
4. Add coconut milk, broth, and browned lamb shanks. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 hours, or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Rosemary and Honey Glazed Lamb Shanks
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb with the bright, herbaceous notes of rosemary and the sweetness of honey, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and honey.
3. Season lamb shanks with salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard.
4. Place lamb shanks in a large Dutch oven or baking dish. Brush the glaze all over the lamb.
5. Cover the dish and bake for 2 1/2 hours, or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Persian Pomegranate Lamb Shanks with Saffron Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Persian cuisine with this tender and aromatic dish, featuring lamb shanks slow-cooked in a pomegranate-based sauce and served with fragrant saffron-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup saffron rice (see note)
– Fresh pomegranate seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb shanks, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add pomegranate juice, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Cook saffron rice according to package instructions.
7. Serve lamb shanks with saffron rice and garnish with pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Tomato and Red Pepper Braised Lamb Shanks
A hearty and flavorful slow-cooked lamb dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups of tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup of lamb broth
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until they start to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, tomatoes, and lamb broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Garlic and Thyme Roasted Lamb Shanks
This recipe yields tender and flavorful lamb shanks infused with the aromatic combination of garlic and thyme, perfect for a hearty meal. With minimal preparation and a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped thyme.
3. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb shanks and rub with the garlic-thyme mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place lamb shanks in a roasting pan and roast for 2 hours, or until tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lamb Shanks with White Beans and Herbs
This classic Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for a cozy winter evening. Tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in aromatic white beans, garlic, and herbs will fill your home with a comforting aroma.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic, rosemary, and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Orange and Cinnamon Braised Lamb Shanks
Orange and Cinnamon Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of a Mediterranean-inspired braising process with these tender lamb shanks infused with orange and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme, sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Brown the lamb shanks in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the lamb and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, chicken broth, orange juice, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender, flipping the lamb halfway through.
8. Serve with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Smoky Paprika Lamb Shanks with Chickpeas
A hearty, flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of lamb shanks with the comforting warmth of chickpeas. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoky paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Lamb Shanks with Creamy Polenta and Gremolata
This hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in rich flavors, paired with creamy polenta and a bright gremolata sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Gremolata ingredients: 1/2 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped lemon zest, 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Brown lamb in olive oil, then transfer to a Dutch oven.
4. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Cover and slow-cook for 2 hours.
5. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in butter and season with salt.
6. Combine gremolata ingredients and serve alongside lamb shanks and creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Spiced Lamb Shanks with Dates and Almonds
Elevate your meal with the rich flavors of lamb, warm spices, and sweet dates. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup pitted dates, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the lamb shanks, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot; pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
8. Remove from oven; stir in dates and almonds. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Shanks with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Rich and flavorful lamb shanks slow-cooked in a savory sauce, served with creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 heads of roasted garlic (see note)
– Butter or heavy cream for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, then set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and cook the onion until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and browned lamb shanks to the pot. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Meanwhile, roast potatoes in a separate oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
8. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves into the mashed potatoes along with butter or heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Mediterranean Lamb Shanks with Olives and Tomatoes
This hearty dish combines tender lamb shanks with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring briny olives and sweet tomatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add garlic to pot and cook for 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes and sliced olives. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Lamb Shanks with Mint and Pea Puree
This classic combination of tender lamb shanks, fragrant mint, and sweet pea puree is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks, then set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, mint leaves, peas and carrots, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 hours, or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve with fresh mint leaves and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of tender lamb shanks with these 18 mouthwatering recipes for the oven. From classic slow-cooked dishes like Slow-Roasted Garlic and Herb Lamb Shanks to exotic flavor combinations like Moroccan-Spiced Lamb Shanks with Apricots, there’s something for every taste. Discover how lamb shanks pair perfectly with herbs like rosemary and thyme, or with sweet ingredients like balsamic glaze and pomegranate. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Mediterranean dish or an aromatic Indian curry, these recipes will guide you to a deliciously tender and flavorful meal.
