Slow Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks

I have another recipe for Moroccan lamb shanks that we really enjoy, but I thought I would experiment a bit more the other day with some more flavors. We really enjoyed how they turned out and for us the flavor had just the right amount of spice. I cooked ours on the stove top on a really low heat for about 4 1/2-5 Hours and the lamb came out falling off the bone as lamb shanks should. I am not sure how long these would need in a slow cooker as I do not own one, so if anyone does them that way please let me know.

Slow Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks
Slow Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks

I have another recipe for Moroccan lamb shanks that we really enjoy, but I thought I would experiment a bit more the other day with some more flavors. We really enjoyed how they turned out and for us the flavor had just the right amount of spice. I cooked ours on the stove top on a really low heat for about 4 1/2-5 Hours and the lamb came out falling off the bone as lamb shanks should. I am not sure how long these would need in a slow cooker as I do not own one, so if anyone does them that way please let me know.

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
  • Carbohydrate 32.7756193786403 g
  • Cholesterol 835.298 mg
  • Fat 94.7506781260341 g
  • Fiber 2.97121876971849 g
  • Protein 60.7858237500196 g
  • Saturated Fat 46.5904323751203 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (713g)
  • Sodium 279.551125006529 mg
  • Sugar 29.8044006089218 g
  • Trans Fat 10.1495888125564 g
  • Calories 1237 calories

Step-by-step

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan add lamb and cook until shanks are browned all over.
  • Heat remaining olive oil in a large saucepan, add onion and garlic, cook until onion softens.
  • Add cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne and ginger, stir until fragrant.
  • Add wine, water, stock granules, paste, honey and chutney, bring to the boil, add lamb shanks, reduce heat to low, cook, covered, for approx 4 1/2-5 hours, until lamb is falling off the bone, turn shanks several times during cooking.
  • About 10 minutes before the end of cooking, add apricots, stir to combine.
  • Remove shanks and cover with foil to keep warm.
  • Mix a little water with the cornflour, add to liquid, bring to the boil, stir until sauce becomes a gravy consistency, it will not be super thick.
  • I served ours over couscous and poured the sauce around the dish.
Slow Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks

A Flavorful Journey: My Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks

As a busy professional woman, juggling demanding work and a desire for delicious, home-cooked meals, I’m always on the hunt for recipes that offer both flavor and convenience. This Slow-Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dish that's incredibly rewarding, yet surprisingly easy to prepare, even on a weeknight. The rich, aromatic flavors transport you straight to a bustling Moroccan souk, without the need for extensive culinary skills or hours spent in the kitchen. The secret lies in letting the slow cooking process work its magic, allowing the tender lamb to absorb the exotic spices, resulting in a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. It's a dish that can be adapted to suit your preferences and available ingredients. Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations or add other vegetables to enhance the depth of flavor. I’ve found that adding a touch of sweetness, like the honey in this recipe, beautifully balances the spices and creates a wonderfully complex taste profile. The lamb shanks themselves are incredibly forgiving; even if you're slightly off with the cooking time, they’ll still be incredibly tender and succulent.

I often serve this dish with a side of fluffy couscous, which perfectly soaks up the rich, flavorful sauce. The combination is simply divine. It's a meal that’s both elegant and comforting, suitable for a relaxed dinner with friends or a special occasion. The leftovers are equally delicious, making this recipe a great choice for meal prepping. I often pack the leftovers for lunch the next day, enjoying the same incredible flavors in a convenient and satisfying way. This recipe is a testament to the fact that you don't need a lot of time or complicated techniques to create something truly special in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This Moroccan Lamb Shank recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Here's what sets it apart:

  • Ease of Preparation: The recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful Depth: The carefully selected spices create a complex and aromatic flavor profile that's both warm and inviting.
  • Tender Lamb: The slow cooking process ensures that the lamb shanks are incredibly tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious.
  • Versatility: The recipe can be adapted to suit individual preferences and available ingredients.
  • Make-Ahead Potential: This recipe is great for meal prepping, with delicious leftovers for lunch the next day.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

  • Couscous: A classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Add a healthy and colorful side dish with roasted carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes.
  • Green Salad: A fresh and vibrant salad will complement the richness of the lamb.
  • Flatbreads: Serve with warm flatbreads for scooping up the delicious sauce.

Adapting the Recipe

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to create your own unique version. Here are some ideas:

  • Spice Variations: Adjust the amount of each spice to suit your taste preferences.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like diced carrots, potatoes, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Different Fruits: Experiment with other dried fruits, such as figs or raisins.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods: This recipe can also be adapted for the slow cooker or Instant Pot.

This Slow Cooked Moroccan Lamb Shanks recipe is a true culinary gem, a dish that marries ease of preparation with an explosion of flavor. It’s a recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it finds its way into yours as well. Enjoy the journey of creating this delicious and comforting meal!