Deviled Lamb Shanks
Tender, flavorful lamb shanks simmered in a rich, tangy sauce with onions, garlic, and Dijon mustard, perfect for comforting dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy saucepan, heat olive oil and brown lamb shanks on all sides, removing them to make room for others as they are browned.
- Add chopped onions and pressed garlic to the pan and sauté until onions are golden.
- Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, ground pepper, and cider or apple juice.
- Return lamb shanks to the Dutch oven, turning to coat them with the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until lamb is tender.
- Remove the cover and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the lamb shanks, about 20 minutes.
- If there is excess fat on top of the sauce, spoon it off before reducing the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the lamb shanks in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute apple juice with white wine for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes that feature roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the deviled lamb shanks over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad complements the dish well. Consider pairing it with a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, to enhance the flavors of the lamb.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the lamb shanks in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deviled Lamb Shanks contains roughly 154 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2686mg per serving (117% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like lamb shoulder or lamb chops. However, cooking times may vary; shoulder may need longer to become tender, while chops will require less time. Make sure to adjust accordingly for the best results.
What can I serve with deviled lamb shanks?
Deviled lamb shanks pair well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or couscous. For a lighter option, a fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. You might also enjoy it alongside a hearty bread to soak up the sauce.
How do I know when the lamb is cooked properly?
The lamb shanks are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. You can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. Cooking longer will yield more tender results, so don’t hesitate to simmer until they reach your desired doneness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).