In this recipe, lamb shanks are slow cooked in a rich and flavorsome stout-based braising liquid until they become tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The combination of stout, herbs, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal. Serve the braised lamb shanks with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) stout beer
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb shanks and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the vegetables.
- Pour in the stout beer and beef broth. Stir well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the rosemary and thyme sprigs to the pot.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them among the vegetables.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Braise the lamb shanks for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the lamb shanks rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the lamb shanks with the braising liquid and vegetables, spooned over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread.
Interesting Facts
Braising is a slow cooking method that helps tenderize tough cuts of meat.
Stout beer adds a depth of flavor to the braising liquid, complementing the lamb beautifully.
The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delectable and savory dish.