Spiced lamb shanks

Lamb roast is undoubtedly a star of festive dishes, a symbol of tradition and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. This captivating recipe for aromatic lamb shanks, combined with fresh vegetables, will turn any meal into a memorable feast. Preparing this roast is an art, but with my help, you will learn the necessary steps to achieve a juicy and flavorful roast that will leave everyone speechless.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 12-24 hours (ideally overnight)
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 lamb shanks (approximately 1 kg)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 50 g smoked bacon
- 300-400 ml semi-dry white wine
- 2 lemons
- Olive oil (enough to coat the meat)
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Provençal herb mix (rosemary, tarragon, thyme, chervil, marjoram, lavender) - available in most supermarkets
- 500 g mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)

Preparing the lamb roast:

1. Preparing the meat: start by washing the lamb shanks under a stream of cold water. This helps remove impurities and maintain the freshness of the meat. Once clean, use a sharp knife to make a few punctures in the meat. This will allow the flavors to penetrate better.

2. Filling the punctures: cut the smoked bacon into small cubes and place a piece of bacon or a few cloves of garlic in each puncture. This step will add intense flavor and an irresistible aroma to the roast.

3. Marinating: in a large bowl, prepare a mixture (marinade) of white wine, olive oil, and the juice of one lemon. Add salt, pepper, and the Provençal herb mix. This mixture will envelop the meat in its wonderful flavors. Place the shanks in the bowl, ensuring they are well covered by the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge overnight.

Baking:

4. Preheating the oven: the next day, preheat the oven to 200°C (grill), preparing to add the roast. This step is essential for achieving a delicious crust.

5. First baking time: remove the lamb shanks from the marinade and place them in a baking dish. Cover them with aluminum foil and let them bake for about 25 minutes. This step will allow the meat to fill with flavors and remain juicy.

6. Finishing the baking: after 25 minutes, remove the foil and let the roast develop a beautiful golden color. Bake for another 35 minutes, turning the shanks occasionally for even cooking.

7. Adding the vegetables: about 15 minutes before the baking is done, add the mix of broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots to the dish. These vegetables will not only complete the dish but also ensure a note of freshness.

Serving:

Once the lamb roast is ready, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial; it allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, making it juicier. You can serve it simply alongside the roasted vegetables or accompany it with delicious sides like bread dumplings, mashed potatoes, or a crunchy seasonal salad.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the meat: opt for high-quality lamb from trusted farms. This will significantly influence the flavor of the dish.
- Vegetable varieties: you can experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or sweet potatoes, to diversify the dish.
- The wine: choose a semi-dry white wine that you enjoy; its flavors will intensify during cooking and add extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Lamb meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for tissue development and repair. It also contains B vitamins, zinc, and iron, all important for maintaining optimal health. The vegetables added to the dish contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace lamb with pork or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.
2. How long can I keep marinated meat? It is recommended to consume it within 24 hours, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours.
3. What wine is best suited for this recipe? A semi-dry white or light red wine can perfectly complement the flavors of the roast.

Lamb roast is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth around the table. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites. Enjoy your meal!