When we think of lamb, we tend to picture a plate of delicately Frenched chops with rosy middles, or, on the other end of the spectrum, a roasted leg of lamb, fragrant with rosemary and garlic. Lamb shanks tend to be forgotten, but that’s a crime — much like beef brisket, they’re layered with fat, which makes them amazingly flavorful if prepared correctly.

Since they’re also filled with connective tissue, it’s important to break down the meat to achieve the tender, falling-of-the-bone result you’re looking for. And there’s one method that delivers more reliably than any other: braising. Low, slow heat with plenty of moisture cooks lamb shanks perfectly, and creates a velvety sauce that’s flavored with the juices and the fat from the meat. (If you want a lower-cal meal, simply make the dish the day before, refrigerate, then skim the fat out of the sauce.)

Best of all, lamb shanks are very versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for Indian-spiced lamb shanks or want a French-style preparation like lamb shanks with French green lentil and sweet potato stew, we’ve got your winning recipe.

Spicy Lamb Shanks

Cinnamon and cardamom give these tender shanks complex flavor. Just throw the ingredients into a slow cooker in the morning, and your kitchen will smell like heaven when you walk in the door.

Braised Lamb Shanks with Garlic and Vermouth

Two whole heads of garlic mellow into a deep, earthy note that’s the backbone of this luscious sauce. It’s even better if made a day in advance.

Lamb Shank Stew with Russet Potato Top

This dish takes lamb stew to another level — the bone-in shanks contribute tremendous depth of flavor.

Lamb Shanks with French Green Lentil and Sweet-Potato Ragout

One-dish meals can be one-note, but not this beautiful lentil and sweet-potato stew, which is crowned with a tender braised lamb shank.

Braised Lamb Shanks with Indian Spices

Lamb’s rich, earthy flavors stand up well to piquant Indian spices. Unlike some restaurant preparations you might have tried (vindaloo comes to mind), this dish definitely is mellow enough for the whole family.

Lamb Shanks Braised with Tomatoes and Coriander

A long, slow cooking time gives the myriad of spices in this braise time to mellow and co-mingle to create something truly special. The tomatoes break down into the sauce, too, lending welcome acidity and depth of flavor.

Merguez-Spiced Lamb Shanks with Chickpeas

Entertaining? Wow your guests with these shanks, flavored with a blend of North African spices. Canned chickpeas absorb the flavors, too, and provide welcome texture.

For the love of lamb! Explore all our lamb shank recipes!

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Categories: Other Holidays & Parties | Tags: Easter, Easter Lamb Dishes, Lamb, Lamb Stew
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