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Tender Pomegranate Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Ingredients

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For the lamb shanks:

  • 4 lamb shanks (about 3 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 cup pomegranate juice
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Prep and Season the Lamb: Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 8-10 minutes total. Transfer the lamb shanks to a plate and set aside.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Add the cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and coriander, and cook for another minute until the spices are toasted.
  • Deglaze and Simmer: Stir in the pomegranate juice, pomegranate molasses, broth, red wine, and tomato paste. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits (flavor!). Bring the mixture to a simmer and return the lamb shanks to the pot. Add the bay leaf.
  • Braise the Lamb: Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let the lamb shanks braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  • Finish the Dish: Once done, carefully remove the lamb shanks from the pot. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the liquid on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes to reduce it.
  • Serve: Serve the lamb shanks with the braising liquid spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley.

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