Are you craving a truly delicious and comforting meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Instant Pot lamb shank recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender lamb in a rich, flavorful gravy, all without hours of simmering on the stovetop. It's the perfect example of how easy healthy meals can be, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in lamb shanks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup lamb broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Lamb Shanks
Pat the lamb shanks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the lamb shanks from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour the red wine into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This process, called deglazing, adds intense flavor to your sauce.
Step 4: Instant Pot Magic
Transfer the sautéed vegetables and the red wine mixture to your Instant Pot. Add the lamb shanks, lamb broth, diced tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for at least 20 minutes. Carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the lamb shanks from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce. Serve the lamb shanks over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta, spooning the delicious gravy generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lamb Shanks:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: Sear the lamb shanks in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your lamb shanks will be enhanced by using fresh herbs and a good quality red wine.
- Adjust cooking time: If your lamb shanks are smaller, you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly. For larger shanks, you might need to add 15-20 minutes. Always check for tenderness with a fork.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. The lamb shanks can be cooked a day or two in advance and reheated before serving.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, potatoes, or parsnips.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaf to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This easy recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!