Tender braised lamb shanks served with a rich herb-infused sauce, garnished with parsley, on a holiday-themed plate.

Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks with Herb Infusion – Festive Perfection

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Warm your holiday table with this Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks recipe. These succulent lamb shanks, infused with fresh rosemary, thyme, and a splash of red wine, are cooked low and slow to tender, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy winter dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty flavors and festive appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Holiday Elegance: A sophisticated main course that’s perfect for Christmas or special occasions.
  • Rich & Flavorful: Herb-infused broth, red wine, and tender lamb make for an indulgent dish.
  • Low Maintenance: Simple to prepare and slow-cooked to perfection in the oven.

Ingredients for Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 lamb shanks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Vegetables & Aromatics:

  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup red wine
  • 4 cups beef or lamb broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Season

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

2. Sear the Lamb Shanks

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the lamb shanks until they develop a golden-brown crust, about 8–10 minutes total.
  3. Remove the lamb shanks and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
  2. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavors.

4. Deglaze with Red Wine

  1. Pour in the red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  2. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the wine to reduce slightly.

5. Add Broth and Herbs

  1. Add the broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot.
  2. Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid.

6. Slow-Cook in the Oven

  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
  2. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer to the oven.
  3. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.

7. Strain and Serve

  1. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and skim any excess fat from the surface of the sauce.
  2. Strain the sauce for a smoother texture if desired.
  3. Ladle the sauce over the lamb shanks and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Sides: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Vegetable Pairings: Roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots complement the rich flavors perfectly.
  • Wine Pairing: Pair with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Tips for Perfect Braised Lamb Shanks

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add a depth of flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
  • Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.
  • Low and Slow: Cooking at a lower temperature for a longer time ensures tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
  • Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another cut of lamb?
Yes, lamb shoulder works well as a substitute for shanks. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
You can use a heavy-bottomed pot with a lid or transfer the mixture to a covered baking dish for braising.

Can I make this recipe without wine?
Yes! Substitute the wine with additional broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or pomegranate juice for depth.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion: A Festive Centerpiece

Bring warmth and elegance to your holiday table with this Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks with Herb Infusion. Tender lamb, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs come together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

Make this recipe your new Christmas tradition and enjoy a meal that celebrates the flavors of the season!

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