Description
These Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary Jus are slow-cooked until fork-tender in a rich, aromatic broth infused with rosemary, garlic, and vegetables. This elegant dish is perfect for special occasions and comforting family dinners, offering a hearty and flavorful meal that highlights the tender tenderness of lamb enhanced by the savory rosemary-infused jus.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Flavorings
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red grape juice
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
Thickening Agent
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for slow braising of the lamb shanks.
- Season Lamb: Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor before cooking.
- Sear Lamb: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until they develop a rich brown crust, then remove them from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromas.
- Deglaze Pot: Pour in beef broth and red grape juice, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to incorporate full flavor.
- Add Herbs: Add fresh rosemary sprigs and bay leaves to infuse the broth with herbal notes.
- Return Lamb to Pot: Place the seared lamb shanks back into the pot, making sure they are partially submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Braise: Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the lamb shanks for 2½ to 3 hours until the meat is very tender and falling off the bone.
- Prepare Jus: Remove the lamb shanks and strain the cooking liquid if desired. Simmer the strained liquid on the stovetop to reduce it slightly. For a thicker jus, stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce reaches the preferred consistency.
- Serve: Plate the lamb shanks and spoon the rosemary jus over them. Serve warm with complementary sides such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- The flavor of the dish improves when prepared a day ahead and reheated, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Using fresh rosemary provides the best aroma and flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired