Balsamic Braised Lamb Shanks is a classic and delicious Easter main dish prepared with lamb shanks cooked low and slow to a melt-in-your-mouth perfection with balsamic vinegar, wine, garlic, and rosemary.
Rub the lamb shanks with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the remaining olive oil into a Dutch oven and warm it over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and brown them on all sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and set aside.
Add the onions to the Dutch oven and cook for 2 minutes, frequently stirring, until the onions begin to soften.
In the meantime, in a mixing bowl, prepare the marinade by combining balsamic vinegar, red wine, chicken broth, garlic, and rosemary leaves; mix until thoroughly incorporated.
Pour the marinade over the onions and return the lamb shanks to the pot; bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. Cover with a lid, place in the oven, and cook for 1.5 hours.
Remove the lid, gently flip the lamb shanks to the other side, and continue to cook for 30 more minutes, uncovered.
Remove from oven and serve the lamb shanks over mashed potatoes drizzled with the cooking liquid.
Balsamic Vinegar: If it's too thin, reduce it to a syrup-like consistency. Authentic balsamic vinegar, like the one in this recipe, will have a thick pouring consistency. If you are using balsamic vinegar that's the consistency of red wine vinegar, you will need to reduce it until it reaches a thick syrupy consistency.
Herbs: You don't have to use rosemary and can try the recipe with thyme, oregano, or sage for different flavors.
Wine: Full-bodied or lighter wines both work, depending on the desired flavor depth.
Add Vegetables: Carrots or celery can be included for extra flavor and texture.
Slow Cooker Option: Adapt the recipe for a slow cooker and cook it for 6 to 8 hours on low.
Serve with Variety: Pair with mashed potatoes, polenta, or risotto.
Try Other Meats: Beef short ribs or pork shanks can substitute for lamb, but you'll have to adjust the cooking time.
Garnish: Add chopped parsley or lemon zest before serving for a fresh touch.
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.