Lamb chop on a bed of onions and green garlic with coriander leaves

Lamb shank on a bed of green onions and garlic with coriander leaves

Who doesn't want a festive, delicious meal that brings the whole family together? Lamb shank is a staple at holiday tables, especially at Easter, but today I will guide you to prepare a unique version that will bring a touch of originality and flavor to your plate. Our recipe is not just a roast, but a true culinary experience where flavors harmoniously blend to create a special dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 2-3 hours
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 lamb shanks (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2-3 bunches of green onions
- 2 bunches of green garlic
- 200 ml white wine (optional, you can also use red wine for a stronger flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lard (or olive oil)
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Fresh dill leaves (for garnish)
- Salt
- Sweet paprika
- Pepper
Marinade:
- 50 ml olive oil
- 50 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves (optional)
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 glass of wine (200 ml)

Preparing the marinade

Start by preparing the marinade for the lamb shanks. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped coriander leaves, salt, pepper, and wine. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. This marinade will not only enhance the meat's flavor but will also help tenderize it.

Wash the lamb shanks well, then dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water. Place the shanks in the marinade, ensuring they are completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, ideally overnight. The longer the meat marinates, the tastier it will be.

Preparing the vegetables

Once the shanks have marinated, it's time to take care of the vegetables. Wash the green onions and green garlic, then chop them finely. These will add a fresh and aromatic taste to the roast. You can also use garlic leaves if you like more intense flavors.

Preparing the roast

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a baking tray, grease the bottom with lard (or olive oil) to prevent the meat from sticking. Place the green onions and garlic at the bottom of the tray, creating an aromatic bed for the lamb shanks to roast on.

Remove the shanks from the marinade and let them drain slightly. Sprinkle a little salt, sweet paprika, and pepper on each shank, ensuring all the spices are evenly distributed. Place the lamb shanks on top of the onions and garlic, then pour the wine over them.

Now, place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes. It is essential to check the shanks from time to time to avoid drying out. If you notice they are browning too quickly, cover the tray with aluminum foil.

After 30 minutes, it's time to remove the vegetables from the top, turn the shanks, and sprinkle them with fresh coriander leaves. These will add a vibrant and fresh aroma that will transform the roast into a delicacy.

Finalizing the dish

Once the lamb shanks are nicely browned, remove the tray from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy roast.

For serving, place the lamb shanks on a large platter, alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad. You can also add some lemon slices for a pleasant contrast of acidity.

Useful tips and variations

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some sprigs of rosemary or fresh thyme to the marinade.
- This recipe pairs very well with a dry white wine or a young red wine that will complement the meat's flavors.
- You can use this recipe for other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey thighs.

Nutritional benefits

Lamb meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, being rich in vitamins B12, B6, and minerals such as zinc and iron. When consumed in moderation, this roast can be part of a balanced diet.

Estimated calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving, depending on the cooking method and ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen lamb shanks?
Yes, but it is recommended to completely thaw them before marinating.

2. What other side dishes go well with lamb shanks?
Besides mashed potatoes, you can also try grilled vegetables or a Mediterranean salad.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The remaining roast can be kept in the refrigerator, airtight, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a pan.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a holiday lunch?
Absolutely! The aroma and appearance of this roast make it ideal for any festive meal.

In conclusion, this recipe for lamb shanks on a bed of green onions and garlic with coriander leaves is a perfect choice to celebrate special moments with loved ones. With its combination of flavors and textures, it will surely become a family recipe, appreciated and repeated every time a festive meal is desired. Enjoy your meal!