Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

These Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks are a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Greece right to your table. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or special gatherings, this recipe features tender meat braised to perfection in aromatic spices and a savory broth. The combination of lamb shanks with a medley of vegetables creates a hearty meal that will impress your guests and warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The blend of spices like oregano and cinnamon infuses the lamb with a deep, satisfying taste.
• Tender Meat: Slow braising ensures that the lamb shanks become incredibly tender and easy to fall off the bone.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create an impressive meal with minimal effort.
• Comforting Dish: This recipe is ideal for cold nights, offering warmth and comfort in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot is perfect for slow cooking, allowing even heat distribution for tender meat.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all ingredients mix well.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time efficiency.

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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 and Seasoning

• 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

For the Broth and 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 Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) so it’s ready when you’re done prepping.

Step 3: Sear the Lamb Shanks

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat:
* Add olive oil.
* Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
* Sear each shank until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes per side).

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Spices

Once browned:
* Add pearl onions, celery, garlic, vinegar, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, allspice, cinnamon sticks, kosher salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
* Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Tomato Sauce

Pour in chicken broth followed by tomato sauce:
* Ensure all ingredients are submerged in liquid.

Step 6: Braise in the Oven

Cover the Dutch oven with its lid:
* Place it in preheated oven.
* Cook for about 150 minutes or until lamb is tender.

Step 7: Prepare Potatoes

While the lamb cooks:
* Boil Yukon gold potatoes until soft (about 15 minutes).
* Drain and mash with unsalted butter, salt, pepper, whole milk, and cream cheese until creamy.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked:
* Remove lamb from oven.
* Serve on a plate with mashed potatoes on the side.
* Garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks!

How to Serve Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Serving Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks can elevate any meal, making it feel special and inviting. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes made with Yukon golds complement the rich flavors of the lamb shanks perfectly. A touch of cream cheese adds an extra layer of smoothness.

Accompany with Fresh Herb Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty dish while adding freshness to each bite.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce. It adds a delightful texture contrast to the meal.

Add Roasted Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers can provide a colorful and nutritious side that enhances the overall presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Parsley

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish’s flavor profile, making it more appealing.

Create a Greek Tzatziki Sauce

• A cool tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm lamb shanks.

How to Perfect Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Perfecting your Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose quality lamb: Selecting fresh, high-quality lamb shanks will greatly enhance the flavor and tenderness of the dish.
• Sear before braising: Brown the lamb shanks in olive oil before cooking. This step develops deeper flavors through caramelization.
• Use homemade broth: Whenever possible, use homemade chicken broth for richer taste. If using store-bought, opt for low-sodium varieties.
• Marinate for extra flavor: Letting the lamb marinate in vinegar and spices for a few hours or overnight can intensify its flavor.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure that you braise the shanks until they are fork-tender. This may take longer than expected due to variations in meat cuts.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the shanks to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, resulting in more succulent meat.

Best Side Dishes for Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

Pairing side dishes with your Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Orzo Salad: A refreshing orzo salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese makes for a light accompaniment.
2. Roasted Garlic Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed with roasted garlic add a vibrant touch and complement the richness of lamb.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with lemon zest offers a zesty counterpoint to the savory flavors of lamb.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a healthy and visually appealing side dish.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Flavored couscous mixed with herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives brings an aromatic addition to your plate.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds elegance and complements the hearty nature of lamb shanks.
7. Feta and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with spinach and feta create a savory bite-sized treat that pairs excellently with lamb.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini provide both crunch and flavor alongside your tender lamb dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the lamb shanks properly can lead to bland meat. Be generous with salt and spices to ensure full flavor.
• Rushing the browning process: Browning the lamb shanks is crucial for developing rich flavors. Take your time and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Ignoring simmering time: A short cooking time will result in tough meat. Allow the lamb shanks to braise low and slow for tenderness.
• Using low-quality broth or vinegar: The quality of ingredients matters. Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth and vinegar for better taste.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Cutting into the meat too soon can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for juicy results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

• Place cooled lamb shanks in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covering with a damp paper towel, for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks.

Can I use another type of meat instead of lamb?

Yes, you can substitute beef or turkey if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used.

How do I know when the lamb shanks are done?

The lamb should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone once done. This usually takes about 2-2.5 hours of braising.

What sides pair well with Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks?

Consider serving with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or dinner parties.

Final Thoughts

Greek-Style Braised Lamb Shanks offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress your guests or warm your family on a chilly evening. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to make it your own!