16 Best Italian Lamb Shank Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!

Published on: Mar 16, 2024

When it comes to authentic Italian cuisine, few dishes can rival the rich and flavorful taste of a perfectly cooked lamb shank. This traditional recipe has been passed down for generations and is a staple in many Italian households. With its tender and succulent meat, combined with aromatic herbs and vegetables, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. In this article, we will share with you the best Italian lamb shank recipe that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy.

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Preparing the Lamb Shank

Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it's time to prepare the lamb shank. Start by trimming off any excess fat from the shank and seasoning it with salt and pepper. This will help to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Then, in a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lamb shank and sear it on all sides until it's golden brown. This step is crucial as it will help to lock in the moisture and create a beautiful crust on the outside of the shank.

Adding the Aromatics

Next, it's time to add the aromatics that will give this dish its signature Italian flavors. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in the same pot where you seared the lamb shank. Once the vegetables are soft and fragrant, add garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the mix. These herbs will add depth and complexity to the dish. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are caramelized and the herbs are fragrant.

Deglazing and Braising

Now, it's time to deglaze the pot with a generous amount of red wine. This step is crucial as it will help to tenderize the meat and add a rich depth of flavor to the dish. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the lamb shank and let the wine cook down for a few minutes. Once the wine has reduced by half, add chicken or beef broth to the pot until the lamb shank is almost fully submerged. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

Serving and Presentation

After patiently waiting for the lamb shank to cook, it's time to present this delicious dish. Carefully remove the shank from the pot and place it onto a serving dish. Strain the braising liquid and reduce it in a separate pan until it thickens into a rich and flavorful sauce. Pour the sauce over the lamb shank and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Serve with your choice of sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and enjoy the taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home. In conclusion, this authentic Italian lamb shank recipe is a must-try for any food lover. With its tender and succulent meat, combined with aromatic herbs and vegetables, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Give it a try and indulge in the flavors of Italy with every bite. Buon appetito!