This Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks recipe delivers a luxurious holiday meal infused with the rich flavors of fresh thyme, rosemary, and a savory tomato-based broth. Perfect for Christmas dinner, the slow-cooked lamb becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, creating a memorable centerpiece for your festive table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Tender Meat: Slow braising ensures the lamb shanks are juicy and flavorful.
- Elegant and Festive: A stunning main dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dish in advance and reheat for stress-free entertaining.
- Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the dish with aromatic depth.
Ingredients for Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks
For the Lamb Shanks:
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Herb-Infused Sauce:
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup beef broth (for deglazing)
- 2 cups beef broth (additional for braising)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Season the Lamb
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Pat the lamb shanks dry and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Brown the Lamb Shanks
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb shanks and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery.
- Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in 1 cup of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir well to incorporate the flavors into the broth.
5. Build the Braising Liquid
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and the remaining 2 cups of beef broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Braise the Lamb Shanks
- Return the browned lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them into the braising liquid.
- Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Braise for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Adjust and Serve
- Remove the pot from the oven and carefully transfer the lamb shanks to a serving platter.
- Skim any excess fat from the surface of the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Pour the rich herb-infused sauce over the lamb shanks and garnish with fresh rosemary.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairings: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or buttery polenta to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Festive Additions: Pair with a crisp green bean almondine or a fresh citrusy salad to balance the richness.
- Bread Lover’s Option: A side of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the herb-infused sauce.
Tips for Perfect Braised Lamb Shanks
- Patience is Key: Slow cooking ensures the lamb becomes tender and flavorful.
- Bone-In for Best Results: Bone-in lamb shanks add depth to the braising liquid.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce for extra richness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance; the flavors deepen as the dish rests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, sear the lamb and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
What other cuts of meat work?
Beef short ribs or oxtails are great alternatives if lamb shanks are unavailable.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered on the stovetop until reduced to your desired consistency.
Conclusion: A Holiday Classic to Remember
This Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks with Herb Infusion is more than a dish—it’s an experience. With tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb and a deeply flavorful herb-infused sauce, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones.
Prepare this holiday masterpiece and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and unforgettable. Happy holidays!