- Onion, chopped (provides a sweet base for the sauce)
- Carrots, sliced (supports tender meat and adds color)
- Celery stalks, diced (brings in fresh flavors and nutrients)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (essential for traditional flavor profile)
- Thyme leaves (adds aromatic complexity to the dish)
- Red wine (optional but enhances umami taste; use dry red or white wine)
- Beef broth (for extra moisture and depth of flavor)
- Tomato paste (softens texture and adds acidity)
- Brown sugar (balances the richness with a touch of sweetness)
- Salt (adjust according to personal preference for seasoning)
- Black pepper (freshly ground, enhances overall taste)
- Bay leaves (used for traditional braising)
Incorporate these ingredients into your recipe by following SEO-friendly formatting to improve search engine visibility. Use relevant keywords and ensure your content is easy to read and understand.
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### Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe: A Flavorful and Hearty Dish
Braised lamb shanks are a classic dish that offers tender meat and rich flavors. This recipe uses slow cooking to transform tough lamb into succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pieces. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner night, this recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the best of winter's flavors.
#### Ingredients:
- 4 lamb shanks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme and rosemary, for garnish
- Olive oil
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Lamb Shanks:**
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Pat dry the lamb shanks with a paper towel and season them generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the Meat:**
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb shanks, and sear until they are well browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. This step helps to create a flavorful crust and lock in juices.
3. **Create the Vegetables:**
- Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
4. **Add Liquid and Seasonings:**
- Pour in red wine (if using) or beef stock to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in tomato paste and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. **Return Lamb and Simmer:**
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot. Make sure they are fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
6. **Finish Cooking:**
- After cooking, remove from the oven. If the sauce seems too thin, you can reduce it by simmering over medium heat.
- Check seasonings and adjust if necessary. Serve hot with a garnish of fresh thyme and rosemary.
#### Tips for Success:
- Ensure your lamb shanks are at room temperature before searing to achieve a better browning.
- Using red wine adds depth to the flavor but can be omitted for a simpler version.
- For even more flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or juniper berries during cooking.
#### SEO Keywords and Tags:
- Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe
- Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks
- Winter Hearty Dishes
- Tender Lamb Meat
- Classic Italian Cooking
By following these detailed steps, you can create a delicious braised lamb shanks that is sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and warm comfort this dish provides!