Nigella Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks

Dive into the savory world of Nigella Lawson's Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks, a dish that promises a tender and succulent experience, where the meat effortlessly falls off the bone. This recipe, a testament to the simplicity and elegance of slow cooking, transforms basic ingredients into a luxurious meal.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Nigella Lawson's Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine and Garlic is a celebration of rich flavors and tender lamb, cooked slowly until it reaches perfection. This dish is characterized by its minimal preparation and the magic that unfolds over hours of slow cooking.

Cultural or Historical Context

Lamb shanks have been a staple in cuisines around the world, known for their rich flavor and tender meat when cooked properly. This particular method of slow cooking in red wine and garlic is rooted in traditional cooking techniques that bring out the depth of flavors in tougher cuts of meat, making them a favorite in European and Mediterranean cuisines.

Ingredients List

To prepare this dish, you'll need:

• Lamb shanks (quantity as per serving size)
• Lamb stock
• Red wine (250 millilitres)
• Garlic (to taste)
• Fresh rosemary (to taste)

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your slow cooker.
2. Heat the lamb stock, red wine, garlic, and rosemary in a pan.
3. Place the lamb shanks in the slow cooker and cover them with the hot stock mixture.
4. Cook on a low setting for at least 6 hours.
5. Optionally, for a crispy exterior, transfer the shanks to an oven for the last 20 minutes of cooking.
6. Reduce the cooking liquid to create a delicious gravy to accompany the shanks.

Storage and Reheating

The beauty of this dish is its ability to improve with time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply reheat in a preheated oven or on the stove, adding a bit of stock or water to keep it moist.

Nutritional Information

Lamb is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, this dish is rich in flavor and should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The inclusion of red wine and stock contributes to its savory depth, while garlic and rosemary add aromatic notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of stock? Yes, while lamb stock is preferred for its depth of flavor, beef or vegetable stock can also be used as substitutes.
• How can I make the gravy thicker? Reducing the cooking liquid on the stove after cooking will naturally thicken it. For a thicker gravy, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be added.

In conclusion, Nigella Lawson's Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine and Garlic is a dish that stands out for its simplicity, depth of flavor, and the comforting, homely vibe it brings to the table. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s a recipe that asks for patience but rewards you with every tender bite.

Original recipe by Nigella Lawson, found on her website​​​​.