How can I make Greek lamb shanks more tender?

Slow-cooking the shanks and allowing them to rest after cooking are key to achieving tender meat.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the lamb and preparing the sauce, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What wine pairs well with Greek lamb shanks?

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah complements the flavors beautifully.

Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb Shanks – Mediterranean Perfection

Name: Succulent Greek Lamb Shanks: A Culinary Journey to Greece
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 lamb shanks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup red wine; 2 cups beef or lamb stock; 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Optional: 1/2 cup kalamata olives; Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Description

Tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in a rich tomato, red wine, and herb sauce, full of authentic Mediterranean flavors and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

4 lamb shanks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef or lamb stock
1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional: 1/2 cup kalamata olives
Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

Pat the lamb shanks dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof pot over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shanks on all sides for 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Pour in red wine, bring to a simmer, and reduce by half while scraping the pot bottom.
Stir in tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, and stock. Add rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and optional ingredients if using.
Return lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
Cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours until meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Notes

Marinate lamb overnight for deeper flavor. Avoid overcrowding when browning. Let the dish rest 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Oven Braised
Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 lamb shank
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: lamb shanks, Greek lamb, Mediterranean, slow-cooked, hearty dinner