When it comes to classic Mediterranean cuisine, few dishes can rival the hearty, aromatic flavors of a Greek-style lamb shank. This dish features tender, slow-roasted lamb infused with garlic, rosemary, oregano, and lemon, paired with golden, crispy lemon potatoes. Perfect for special occasions or Sunday dinners, this recipe is as comforting as it is impressive.
Let’s dive into how to prepare this delectable Greek feast at home!
Ingredients for Greek-Style Lamb Shank
For the Lamb:
- 1 leg of lamb (4-5 pounds)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Potatoes:
- 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek-Style Lamb Shank
1. Prepare the Lamb
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic, rosemary, oregano, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, mustard, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously over the lamb, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Place the lamb in a roasting pan with a rack, fat side up. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Roast the Lamb
- Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches:
- 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare
- 145°F (63°C) for medium
- Baste the lamb with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
3. Prepare the Lemon Potatoes
- While the lamb is roasting, toss the potatoes with lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap for even roasting.
4. Roast the Potatoes
- After the lamb has been roasting for 30 minutes, place the baking sheet with the potatoes in the oven.
- Roast the potatoes for 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender.
5. Rest and Serve
- Once the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices for a tender bite.
- Serve the lamb with the roasted lemon potatoes, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the lamb for added flavor.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Meat: Allow the lamb to come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, invest in a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the lamb’s internal temperature.
- Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, spread them out in a single layer and avoid crowding the baking sheet.
- Marinate Overnight: For even deeper flavors, marinate the lamb overnight in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Greek-Style Lamb Shank with these sides for a complete Mediterranean meal:
- Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip complements the rich flavors of the lamb.
- Greek Salad: A mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese adds freshness and crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Include zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for an extra dose of Mediterranean flair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cut of lamb?
Yes, this recipe works well with lamb shoulder or lamb chops. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and cut.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Cook the lamb and potatoes up to 1 day in advance. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Use half the amount of dried rosemary and oregano, as they are more concentrated.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, red potatoes or baby potatoes are great alternatives. Adjust the roasting time as needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Greek-Style Lamb Shank with Lemon Potatoes is a celebration of bold Mediterranean flavors. The juicy, herb-marinated lamb combined with the zesty, golden potatoes creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a special dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy a true Greek classic. Καλή όρεξη! (Kali orexi – Enjoy your meal!)