Name: Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Ingredients: 2 large lamb shanks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

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Lamb shank with creamy mashed potatoes is the epitome of comfort food—tender, succulent lamb shanks slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, aromatic braising liquid, paired with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes. This hearty dish is an ideal choice for a special dinner or a cozy meal that will impress your guests. The lamb is braised in a flavorful combination of red wine, beef broth, and fresh herbs, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious. When served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, it becomes a meal that combines savory richness with a perfect balance of flavors. Perfectly cooked and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for any occasion, from a family dinner to a romantic evening.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tender and Flavorful Lamb

The slow braising process makes the lamb tender and full of flavor, practically falling off the bone.

2. Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and buttery, making them the ideal side to soak up the delicious braising liquid from the lamb.

3. Impressive Presentation

This dish looks elegant and refined, making it perfect for serving to guests or on special occasions.

4. Comforting and Hearty

The combination of the tender lamb and creamy mashed potatoes makes for a comforting meal that satisfies both body and soul.

5. Rich and Aromatic Sauce

The braising liquid infused with wine, beef broth, and rosemary creates a flavorful sauce that enhances the taste of the lamb and adds depth to the entire dish.

Ingredients

Lamb shanks
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Carrot (chopped)
Celery stalks (chopped)
Beef broth
Red wine
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Salt and pepper
Potatoes (peeled and quartered)
Butter
Heavy cream

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add more vegetables to the braise, like parsnips, turnips, or potatoes, to enhance the flavors.
Use Different Herbs: While rosemary is traditional, you can substitute with thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, replace the lamb with a plant-based protein like seitan or a hearty mushroom-based dish and serve with the same mashed potatoes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Lamb Shanks

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove the shanks from the pot and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Add the red wine and beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes and rosemary sprigs.

Step 4: Braise the Lamb

Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily falls off the bone.

Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the lamb is braising, peel and quarter the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the lamb shanks over the creamy mashed potatoes. Spoon some of the braising liquid from the pot over the lamb and potatoes for added flavor. Garnish with additional rosemary or fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Braising Time: Make sure to braise the lamb for the full 2 1/2 to 3 hours to ensure it becomes fall-off-the-bone tender.
Sealing in Flavor: Brown the lamb shanks well before braising to develop a rich, savory crust that adds flavor to the dish.
Mashed Potatoes: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets and make sure to mash them while they’re still warm.
Adjust the Sauce: If the braising liquid reduces too much, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

How to Serve

This Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a perfect main course that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or crusty bread. Serve it with a glass of red wine to complement the richness of the lamb.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover lamb and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezing

Both the lamb and mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to store the lamb with its braising liquid to maintain moisture. When reheating, you may need to add a little more liquid to the lamb to keep it from drying out.

Reheating

Reheat the lamb and mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the lamb, add a bit of the braising liquid as it reheats to ensure it stays moist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe with other cuts of lamb?

While lamb shanks are ideal for braising, you can substitute with other cuts like lamb shoulder or leg, though cooking times may vary.

2. Can I skip the red wine?

Yes, you can substitute the red wine with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

3. Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can transfer the browned lamb shanks and the braising liquid to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.

4. Can I use a different type of broth?

You can use chicken or vegetable broth in place of beef broth, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

5. Can I add more vegetables to the braise?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips are great additions to the braising liquid.

6. What can I use in place of fresh rosemary?

Thyme, oregano, or bay leaves can be used as substitutes for rosemary, each offering a different flavor.

7. How do I make the mashed potatoes smoother?

For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a regular masher.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

9. How do I make the lamb fall-off-the-bone tender?

Braise the lamb low and slow for several hours, allowing the connective tissue to break down, resulting in tender meat.

10. Can I serve this dish with something other than mashed potatoes?

While mashed potatoes are a classic, the lamb also pairs beautifully with polenta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Lamb Shank with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is a luxurious yet simple dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or when you simply want to enjoy a comforting meal. The rich braised lamb paired with the creamy mashed potatoes creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.