Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/17 checked
4
servings
2 tbsp

coriander seeds

whole

2 tbsp

fennel seeds

whole

1 tbsp

black peppercorns

whole

4 unit

lamb shanks

large

4 tbsp

olive oil

divided

1 unit

white onion

cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

10 unit

garlic cloves

peeled

3 unit

celery stalks

cut crosswise into 1 1/2-inch pieces

2 unit

carrots

peeled, cut crosswise into 1 1/2-inch pieces

1 unit

leek

small

3 cup

ruby Port

4 cup

low-salt chicken broth

4 cup

beef broth

6 unit

cloves

whole

2 unit

star anise

whole

2 unit

bay leaves

whole

0.5 tsp

dried crushed red pepper

Step 1
~9 min

Combine coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and black peppercorns in a skillet.

Step 2
~9 min

Toast over medium-high heat until fragrant and slightly darker, about 2 minutes.

Step 3
~9 min

Transfer to a spice grinder and grind until finely ground.

Step 4
~9 min

Rub each lamb shank with 1 teaspoon of the spice blend, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 5
~9 min

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, wide pot over medium-high heat.

Step 6
~9 min

Add the lamb shanks and cook until browned on all sides, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.

Step 7
~9 min

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot.

Step 8
~9 min

Add the onion, garlic, celery, carrots, and leek, and sauté over medium heat until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 9
~9 min

Add the remaining spice blend and stir for 1 minute.

Step 10
~9 min

Pour in the ruby Port and simmer until the liquid is reduced to 2/3 cup, about 15 minutes.

Step 11
~9 min

Add the chicken broth and beef broth, then boil until the liquid is reduced to 3 1/2 cups, about 30 minutes.

Step 12
~9 min

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 13
~9 min

Return the lamb shanks to the pot.

Step 14
~9 min

Add cloves, star anise, bay leaves, and crushed red pepper.

Step 15
~9 min

Cover the pot with foil, then with a lid.

Step 16
~9 min

Place the pot in the oven and braise the lamb until tender, about 2 hours.

Step 17
~9 min

Place 1 lamb shank on each of 4 plates.

Step 18
~9 min

Season the sauce to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 19
~9 min

Spoon the sauce and vegetables over the lamb shanks and serve.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Sear the lamb shanks well for maximum flavor.

Adjust the spices to your preference.

Allow the lamb to rest before shredding for maximum tenderness.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made 2 days ahead and refrigerated. Rewarm before serving.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
High
Noise Level
Medium
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mashed potatoes or polenta.

Accompany with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Roasted Root Vegetables
Creamy Polenta

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Mediterranean

Cultural Significance

Lamb is a celebratory dish in many Mediterranean cultures.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Easter
Christmas
Eid al-Adha

Occasion Tags

Dinner Party
Holiday Meal
Special Occasion

Popularity Score

75/100

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