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+ servings
Slow Cooker Lamb

Slow Cooker Lamb

Tender slow cooker lamb shanks that fall off the bone. An easy, set-and-forget recipe for the ultimate comforting family dinner or special occasion meal.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Sauce Time 10 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 4 shanks lamb
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour divided
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 1 large onion
  • 3 medium carrots
  • 3 stalks celery
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups lamb broth
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 4 leaves bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar optional

Equipment

  • 6-quart or larger slow cooker
  • Large skillet for searing
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Tongs
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Season lamb shanks with half of the flour, salt, and pepper, and rub it on the meat.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet and sear the shanks for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Chop onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into hearty chunks.
  4. Sauté the vegetables in the skillet with the remaining oil for about 3-4 minutes, then add tomato paste and remaining flour.
  5. Pour lamb broth into the skillet, scraping up browned bits, and stir in rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, covering the lamb.
  7. Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours.
  8. Check for doneness; the meat should pull away from the bone easily.
  9. Prepare cornstarch slurry in a bowl and mix with cold water.
  10. Pour the slow cooker liquid into a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and whisk in the cornstarch slurry to thicken.
  11. Adjust seasoning and stir in balsamic vinegar and optional sugar.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 45gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Don't skip the searing step for deep flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For variations, consider Mediterranean style with olives, or use white wine for a new twist. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or fresh greens for a complete meal. Adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.
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