A comforting and flavorful dish of tender braised lamb shank served over creamy mashed potatoes and paired with perfectly roasted vegetables. This meal is rich, hearty, and perfect for a special dinner.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Shank:
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups beef or lamb broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lamb Shank:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Season lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, red wine, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- While the lamb is cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Mash with butter and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Serve:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes onto plates, top with a braised lamb shank, and drizzle with the rich sauce from the pot.
- Add the roasted vegetables on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Enjoy your succulent braised lamb shank with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables!