Lamb shanks are a deliciously hearty cut of meat that become incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I cook lamb shanks in a slow cooker?-you’re in the right place. This method is perfect for busy days when you want a hands-off meal that delivers rich, melt-off-the-bone results. Let’s dive into an easy, step-by-step guide to making slow cooker lamb shanks that will impress your family and friends.
Why Choose Lamb Shanks for Slow Cooking?
Lamb shanks come from the lower part of the leg and are full of connective tissue and collagen. This makes them tough if cooked quickly but wonderfully tender when cooked low and slow. The slow cooker is ideal because it gently breaks down the meat over several hours, infusing it with flavor and turning it into a juicy, tender masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Lamb shanks (2-4, depending on size and servings)
– Salt and black pepper for seasoning
– Olive oil or sunflower oil for browning
– Onion (1 large, sliced)
– Carrots (2 large, cut on the diagonal)
– Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced or grated)
– Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
– Beef or lamb stock (about 2-3 cups)
– Red wine (optional, about 1 cup for extra depth)
– Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves
– Cornflour (cornstarch) slurry for thickening the sauce (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks
1. Prepare and Brown the Lamb Shanks
Start by seasoning the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and brown the shanks on all sides-this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Browning adds a beautiful color and flavor foundation to the dish. Once browned, transfer the shanks to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add sliced onions and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute. This step builds flavor for the sauce.
3. Create the Cooking Liquid
Add tomato paste to the vegetables and stir well. Pour in the stock and, if using, red wine. Add herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly. Then pour the liquid over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker.
4. Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The lamb will become fork-tender and fall off the bone, soaking up all the rich flavors from the broth and herbs.
5. Finish the Sauce
Once the lamb is cooked, remove the shanks and discard the bay leaves. To thicken the sauce, stir in a cornflour slurry (mix cornflour with cold water) and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. If your slow cooker doesn’t get hot enough, transfer the liquid to a saucepan to thicken on the stove.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your lamb shanks over creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice. Spoon the thickened sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary. Add some steamed green vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks
– Brown the meat well: Don’t skip browning; it adds depth and color.
– Use fresh herbs if possible: They give a brighter, fresher flavor than dried.
– Add red wine for richness: It enhances the sauce beautifully but can be omitted if preferred.
– Don’t rush the cooking: Low and slow is key to tender meat.
– Make ahead: Slow cooker lamb shanks reheat well and can be frozen for up to a month.
Variations to Try
– Mediterranean style: Add olives, lemon zest, and rosemary.
– Moroccan twist: Use spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon with dried apricots.
– Classic French: Incorporate red wine, garlic, and fresh thyme with pearl onions.
Slow cooker lamb shanks are a fantastic way to enjoy a gourmet-style meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process transforms this humble cut into a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress every time.