There’s something undeniably comforting about the slow-cooked aroma of lamb shanks simmering in a rich, aromatic blend of red wine, garlic, and herbs. This dish transforms a simple cut of meat into a luxurious, flavorful masterpiece with very little hands-on time. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a special family gathering, braised lamb shanks are deeply satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. The magic lies in the slow braising process: the meat becomes incredibly tender, infused with layers of flavor from the wine, beef broth, and tomato base. The rich sauce, developed as everything cooks together, pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, polenta, or even a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last drop. Whether you’re new to cooking lamb or a seasoned home chef, this dish is an impressive centerpiece that doesn’t require complex techniques. It’s all about patience, letting the oven do the heavy lifting while you enjoy the evolving aroma wafting through your kitchen. Let’s bring the taste of a slow-roasted feast to your table today.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
4 lamb shanks
1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 large onion, sliced into half rings
5 whole garlic cloves, peeled
3 bay leaves
1 cup beef broth
1 cup dry red wine
1/2 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
Preheat an oven-safe Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat and add oil.
Generously season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper on all sides.
Add the shanks to the hot pot and sear each side until golden brown. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion slices until they’re softened and slightly caramelized.
Add the whole garlic cloves and bay leaves, then pour in the beef broth, red wine, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
Return the seared lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
Cover with a lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
Bake for about 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Serve hot, spooning the rich braising liquid over the meat.
Nutritional & Dietary Notes
These braised lamb shanks are protein-rich and provide iron, zinc, and B vitamins essential for energy and immune function. The tomato-based sauce adds antioxidants like lycopene, while garlic and onions offer heart-healthy benefits. Because this recipe uses wine and beef broth, it is not suitable for certain dietary restrictions such as low-sodium, alcohol-free, or vegetarian diets. Gluten-free if broth and tomato sauce are certified gluten-free.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out! Your comments help others in the kitchen and inspire us to keep sharing delicious dishes. If you loved it, don’t forget to share with friends and family—good food is always better when enjoyed together.