Thyme and Balsamic Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks Nourish Every Day from nourisheveryday.com
Introduction
If you are a fan of lamb, then you will love this slow cooker lamb shanks recipe. It is a delicious and easy way to cook lamb shanks, as the slow cooking process allows the lamb to become tender and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends and family.
Ingredients
To make this slow cooker lamb shanks recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
4 lamb shanks
2 onions, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lamb Shanks
The most important ingredient in this recipe is the lamb shanks. You want to make sure you get good quality lamb shanks, as they are the star of the dish. Look for shanks that are tender and have a good amount of meat on them.
Beef Broth and Red Wine
The beef broth and red wine add depth of flavor to the dish. You can use store-bought beef broth or make your own by simmering beef bones with vegetables and herbs. For the red wine, use a good quality wine that you would drink yourself.
Herbs and Spices
The dried rosemary and thyme add a fragrant aroma to the dish, while the bay leaf adds a subtle earthy flavor. You can adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking.
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, let's get started on making this slow cooker lamb shanks recipe.
Step 1: Sear the Lamb Shanks
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, and sear them in the skillet until browned on all sides. This will take about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
While the lamb shanks are searing, prepare the slow cooker. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Lamb Shanks to the Slow Cooker
Once the lamb shanks are browned, transfer them to the slow cooker on top of the onions and garlic.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Pour the beef broth and red wine over the lamb shanks. Add the tomato paste, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
Step 5: Cook the Lamb Shanks
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or on high heat for 4-5 hours. The lamb shanks should be tender and falling off the bone.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the lamb shanks are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the lamb shanks and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
This slow cooker lamb shanks recipe is a great source of protein and iron. One lamb shank contains approximately 25 grams of protein and 3.5 milligrams of iron. The beef broth and red wine also add additional nutrients, such as calcium and antioxidants.
Calories and Fat
One lamb shank contains approximately 400 calories and 20 grams of fat. While this may seem high, keep in mind that this is a hearty and filling dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Sodium
The beef broth used in this recipe contains sodium, which may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake. You can use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the amount of sodium in the dish.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker lamb shanks recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy lamb. The slow cooking process allows the lamb to become tender and flavorful, while the beef broth and red wine add depth of flavor. Serve this dish with your favorite sides for a cozy and satisfying meal.
