apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

The apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This slow-simmered recipe combines tender lamb shanks with sweet carrots and aromatic herbs, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Perfect for weekend dinners, special occasions, or cozy family gatherings, this dish is both impressive and easy to prepare. The unique use of apple vinegar adds a tangy depth that elevates the overall experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The apple vinegar reduction enhances the lamb’s natural taste while balancing sweetness from the carrots.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can easily whip up this dish even on busy days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the carrots and herbs make this dish visually stunning for guests.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish offers both flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for slow cooking; retains heat evenly for tender meat.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Essential for precise slicing of onions and carrots, enhancing your prep time efficiency.

Ingredients

For the Lamb Shank

• 2 lamb shanks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, chopped

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup dry apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef or veal stock
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

How to Make apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your vegetables as described above so they are ready for cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Lamb Shanks

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot:
1. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
2. Place them in the pot and sear on all sides until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot:
1. Add sliced onion and chopped celery.
2. Cook until softened (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build Flavor Base

Add tomato paste to the vegetables in the pot:
1. Stir well to combine everything.
2. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to deepen flavor.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in the apple vinegar:
1. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
2. Then add beef or veal stock along with thyme sprigs.
3. Bring to a simmer before returning lamb shanks to the pot.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover your Dutch oven:
1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Let it simmer gently for about 2 hours or until lamb is fork-tender.

Step 7: Add Carrots

After two hours:
1. Add carrot chunks into the pot.
2. Continue cooking for another 30-40 minutes until carrots are tender.

Step 8: Serve

Once done, remove from heat:
1. Discard thyme sprigs.
2. Serve warm with your choice of sides!

How to Serve apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

Serving your apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank is a delightful experience that enhances the rich flavors of the dish. Pairing it with complementary sides and garnishes can elevate your meal.

Garnish Suggestions

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Citrus Zest: A touch of lemon or orange zest can add a refreshing note to balance the richness.

Accompaniments

• Creamy Polenta: The smooth texture of polenta pairs beautifully with the tender lamb shank and its sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Sparkling Apple Cider: This sparkling drink complements the apple vinegar while enhancing the meal’s overall experience.
• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites, making each taste of lamb more enjoyable.

How to Perfect apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

Perfecting your apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some valuable tips:

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled lamb shanks for better flavor and tenderness during cooking.
• Sear Properly: Browning the lamb in olive oil before braising helps develop deep flavors and creates a rich base for your sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the dish’s taste significantly compared to dried or canned alternatives.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure you simmer the lamb long enough until it’s fork-tender but not overcooked, which can make it dry.

Best Side Dishes for apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

Complementing your apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with delightful side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with lamb.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances out the richness of the lamb.
3. Steamed Green Beans: A simple yet elegant option, lightly salted steamed green beans offer a fresh contrast to the hearty dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables and herbs adds a nutritious element to your plate.
5. Caramelized Onion Risotto: Creamy risotto enriched with caramelized onions creates a luxurious side that complements the lamb’s flavors.
6. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, glazed carrots echo the natural sweetness from the braising process while adding color to your meal.
7. Savory Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs provides a light base that soaks up all those delicious juices from the lamb shank.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust your seasonings during cooking.
• Not browning the meat: Failing to sear the lamb shanks before braising can result in less depth of flavor. Take time to brown the meat well on all sides.
• Using low-quality stock: Poor stock can dilute your dish’s flavor. Always use a good quality beef or veal stock for richer taste.
• Rushing the cooking time: Braising requires low and slow cooking. Don’t rush; allow enough time for the lamb to become tender.
• Overcrowding the pot: Packing too many ingredients in the pot can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs?
The apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs is a deliciously tender lamb dish simmered slowly in a tangy apple vinegar reduction, complemented by fresh vegetables and herbs.

How long does it take to cook apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs?
The total cooking time is usually around 2-3 hours, allowing the lamb shanks to become very tender while absorbing rich flavors.

Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple vinegar with other vinegars like balsamic or pomegranate vinegar if you prefer different flavor profiles.

How do I know when my lamb shanks are done?
Lamb shanks are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone, typically after several hours of braising.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting the herbs to suit your taste.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apple Vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of apple vinegar Braised Lamb Shank with Carrots & Herbs, a dish that promises to elevate your dining experience. This slow-cooked masterpiece features tender lamb shanks braised to perfection in a tangy apple vinegar sauce, accompanied by sweet carrots and fragrant herbs. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe combines simplicity with elegance, making it a go-to option for any home cook. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor impact, you’ll find this hearty dish to be both comforting and impressive.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

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Instructions

1. Gather and chop all ingredients.
2. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from pot.
3. In the same pot, sauté sliced onion and chopped celery until softened (about 4-5 minutes). Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in apple vinegar to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Add beef stock and thyme sprigs; bring to a simmer.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 2 hours.
7. After two hours, add carrot chunks and continue cooking for another 30-40 minutes until both lamb and carrots are tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lamb shank with vegetables (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 95mg