Jamie Oliver Lamb Shank Recipe

You’re going to love making this delicious Jamie Oliver lamb shank recipe!

Full of bold flavors, this dish is a surefire way to bring a touch of gourmet to your kitchen.

To prevent them from drying out, bake the shanks for 20 minutes while occasionally basting them with apple juice and dried chilies.

One thing I really enjoy about this recipe is how tender and melt-in-the-mouth the lamb becomes.

Remember to season generously and be patient with the slow cooking—it makes all the difference!

How to Make Jamie Oliver Lamb Shank Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Lamb Shanks
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 Onions (finely chopped)
• 3 Garlic Cloves (sliced)
• 1 tsp Ground Coriander
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1 can Tomatoes (32 oz.)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Red Wine
• 1 cup Raisins
• 2 Dried Red Chilies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2:

Season the lamb shanks with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3:

In a large ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 4:

Add the lamb shanks and brown them on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the lamb shanks and set them aside.

Step 6:

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened. This takes around 5 minutes.

Step 7:

Add the ground coriander, cumin, and cinnamon. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 8:

Pour in the tomatoes, chicken broth, and red wine.

Step 9:

Return the lamb shanks to the pot and add the raisins and dried red chilies.

Step 10:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the oven.

Step 11:

Cook for about 2 hours, or until the lamb is very tender.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Spices

Make sure your ground spices are fresh, as they add a robust flavor to the dish. Old spices can lose their potency over time.

Browning the Lamb

Browning the lamb shanks is a crucial step to develop that rich, deep flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Adjust for Spice Tolerance

If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using fewer dried chilies. You can always add more if you like it hotter.

Serve with Sides

Serve the lamb shanks with creamy mashed potatoes or couscous. They both make excellent accompaniments to soak up the sauce.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Lamb Shank Recipe

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A classic and comforting side dish!

Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce from the lamb shanks.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes bring lovely caramelized flavors.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary before roasting.

Couscous Salad with Pomegranate

A fresh and vibrant option with a pop of color!

Add pomegranate seeds, mint, and a light lemon dressing.

Garlic-Infused Polenta

A different take with creamy polenta.

Infuse it with garlic and a touch of Parmesan cheese for added depth.

Wilted Spinach with Garlic

Quick, healthy, and easy to prepare!

Sauté spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Don’t worry if you can’t find every ingredient for this lamb shank recipe. There are plenty of substitutions you can use!

For example, if you don’t have pearl barley, you can use quinoa or rice instead. They will absorb the flavors just as well.

If you’re out of red wine, you can swap it with beef stock mixed with a little balsamic vinegar. This gives a rich and tangy taste.

Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are wonderful, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.

You might also try using oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Feel free to experiment with spices too. Adding a bit of cinnamon or cumin can give a unique twist.

Meat Alternatives

Lamb shanks are classic, but you can also use beef shanks or pork shanks.

Each offers distinct flavors and textures, so choose what you prefer or what is available.

Cooking Methods

If you don’t have a lot of time, consider using a pressure cooker to speed up the process.

It will produce tender and flavorful lamb shanks much faster than traditional slow-cooking methods.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Lamb Shank Recipe

Refrigerating

Place your leftover lamb shank in an airtight container to keep it fresh and avoid any cross-contamination in your fridge.

Store it in the main compartment and make sure you consume it within 3-4 days for the best quality and taste.

Always remember to let the lamb shank cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation buildup.

Freezing

If you want to store your lamb shank for a longer period, freezing is a great option.

Wrap the lamb shank tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.

Next, place the wrapped lamb shank in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to label it with the date before freezing.

Defrosting

When you’re ready to enjoy your lamb shank again, move it from the freezer to the fridge the day before you plan to eat it.

Allow it to defrost slowly overnight to maintain its texture and flavor.

Avoid thawing the lamb shank at room temperature to prevent any bacterial growth and ensure it remains safe to eat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Seasoning Properly

Seasoning is key when you’re preparing lamb shanks. Be generous with sea salt and black pepper.

Under-seasoned meat can lack depth and flavor, so ensure you coat the shanks thoroughly before cooking.

Lamb loves bold flavors, so don’t hold back!

Failing to Sear the Meat

Searing the meat before slow cooking is crucial. This step locks in the juices and gives the lamb a rich, deep flavor.

Make sure your pan is hot before you add the lamb shanks.

Sear them until they’re nicely browned all over for the best results!

Neglecting to Check Liquid Levels

It’s easy to forget to check liquid levels during slow cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent the meat from drying out.

Top up with broth, wine, or even water if necessary.

A good amount of liquid ensures that your lamb shanks stay tender and moist.