For a Christmas main dish that’s both elegant and comforting, these Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks with Herb Infusion are the ultimate choice. Slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with aromatic herbs and a rich, savory sauce. It’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.

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Why You’ll Love These Braised Lamb Shanks

This recipe delivers a deeply flavorful and luxurious dish with minimal effort. The slow braising process ensures that the lamb shanks are tender, juicy, and infused with the robust flavors of thyme, rosemary, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a festive gathering or an intimate family dinner, this dish is sure to become a holiday tradition.

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Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup beef broth (for deglazing)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Season and Brown the Lamb Shanks:
   • Pat the lamb shanks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
   • Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the shanks and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
   • Add 1 cup of beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Stir in the remaining 2 cups of beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Braise the Lamb Shanks:
   • Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they’re partially submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the oven.
7. Cook Until Tender:
   • Braise for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check halfway through and add more broth if needed to keep the shanks moist.
8. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the pot from the oven and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the lamb shanks hot with the rich sauce spooned over the top.

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Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes or Polenta: Serve the lamb shanks over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Rustic Bread: A side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the rich juices.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a complete holiday meal.

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Tips for Success

• Low and Slow Cooking: Braising at a low temperature ensures the lamb shanks become tender and flavorful.
• Use a Dutch Oven: A heavy, oven-safe pot with a lid is ideal for even cooking and moisture retention.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Cook it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.

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Why This Recipe is Perfect for Christmas

These Christmas Braised Lamb Shanks bring the warmth and luxury of the holiday season to your table. The dish is flavorful, aromatic, and sure to impress your guests. Best of all, the oven does most of the work, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out, and don’t forget to share it with friends who love festive and hearty dishes!