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Ina Garten Lamb Shank Recipe

Ina Garten Lamb Shank

Lamb shank is a cut of meat from the lower leg of the lamb, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. Ina Garten’s version features a slow-braising method, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dish infused with robust flavors.

Ingredients

  • Lamb shanks – 4 (about 1 pound each)
  • Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper – 1 teaspoon
  • All-purpose flour – ½ cup (for dredging)
  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Yellow onions – 2 large, chopped
  • Carrots – 2, diced
  • Celery – 2 stalks, diced
  • Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
  • Red wine – 1 cup
  • Canned crushed tomatoes – 1 (28-ounce) can
  • Beef or chicken stock – 2 cups
  • Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh rosemary – 2 sprigs
  • Fresh thyme – 2 sprigs
  • Bay leaves – 2

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb Shanks

  • Season the lamb shanks with kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Lightly dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.

Sear the Lamb

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

  • Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 7-10 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Deglaze the Pot

  • Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the Sauce Ingredients

  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken stock, and tomato paste.
  • Add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Braise the Lamb Shanks

  • Return the lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C).
  • Braise for 2 ½ to 3 hours, turning the lamb shanks halfway through, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Serve

  • Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and discard the herb sprigs and bay leaves.
  • Serve the lamb shanks over mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice, with the rich sauce spooned on top.