Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks with minimal effort and time, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts who crave a delicious meal without complicated ingredients or a lengthy cooking process.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks is a brilliantly streamlined recipe that focuses on using just five key ingredients to create a savory and satisfying meal. This recipe highlights lamb shanks, a hearty and flavorful cut of meat, which is braised to perfection with a few other carefully selected ingredients.

The result is a rich, comforting dish that is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. The magic lies in the simplicity and the slow cooking process that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a burst of flavors.

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks, you will need the following:

1. Lamb Shanks – The star of the dish, lamb shanks are a cut from the lower leg of the lamb. Their tough texture makes them perfect for slow braising, allowing them to become incredibly tender and flavorful over time.
2. Rosemary – A fragrant herb that pairs perfectly with lamb, imparting a lovely earthy aroma and herbal notes to the dish.
3. Garlic – A few cloves of garlic are added to provide a punch of flavor and complement the richness of the lamb.
4. Red Wine – A robust red wine helps to deglaze the pan, adding depth and complexity to the sauce, while tenderizing the lamb as it slowly cooks.
5. Tinned Tomatoes – Canned tomatoes create the base for the braising sauce, providing acidity and a slight sweetness to balance the richness of the lamb.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Large Ovenproof Pot or Dutch Oven – This will be used to brown the lamb shanks and braise them in the oven.
2. Sharp Knife – To chop the garlic and prepare any other ingredients.
3. Wooden Spoon – Ideal for stirring the ingredients and scraping up any fond from the bottom of the pot.
4. Lid for the Pot – This helps to retain moisture and ensures even cooking during the braising process.
5. Oven – You’ll need an oven to slowly cook the lamb shanks to perfection.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks?

Step 1: Brown The Lamb Shanks

Heat some olive oil in the large pot over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. This step helps develop a rich flavor and caramelization on the meat.

Step 2: Add Garlic And Rosemary

Once the lamb shanks are browned, add the garlic (slightly crushed) and rosemary. Stir the herbs around the pot to release their fragrance and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Add Red Wine And Tomatoes

Pour in the red wine, allowing it to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. After that, add the tinned tomatoes, stirring to combine. These ingredients will create a flavorful sauce for the lamb to cook in.

Step 4: Braise In The Oven

Cover the pot with a lid, place it in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F), and let it braise for about 2 to 2.5 hours. The long, slow cooking time allows the lamb to become fall-apart tender, while the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.

Step 5: Serve And Enjoy

Once the lamb shanks are cooked, remove them from the oven. Serve them with the braising sauce spooned over the top. Pair the dish with some mashed potatoes, couscous, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Expert Tips

• Use Bone-In Lamb Shanks: The bone in lamb shanks adds extra flavor to the sauce as it cooks. It also helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
• Choose a Full-Bodied Red Wine: A red wine with a rich, bold flavor, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, will add complexity to the sauce and balance the richness of the lamb.
• Let the Lamb Rest: After removing the lamb from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more succulent.
• Experiment with Additions: While this recipe is designed to be simple, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients, such as carrots or onions, to add extra layers of flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks offer a wonderful solution for busy cooks who want a hearty, flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The recipe’s simplicity, combined with the tender, rich flavor of the lamb, makes it a perfect choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. With just five ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks

Jamie Oliver’s recipe for lamb shanks, designed with simplicity in mind, relies on just five key ingredients. While the minimal approach is part of its charm, there’s room to tweak the dish to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some creative and easy variations you can try:

1. Herb Infusion

   • Addition of fresh herbs: Instead of using just garlic and rosemary as in the original recipe, you can enhance the flavor by adding fresh thyme, sage, or mint to the cooking liquid. These herbs bring out a more aromatic and complex flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with lamb.
   • Herb butter: Create a herb-infused butter by mixing butter with crushed garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme. Place dollops of this herb butter over the lamb shanks before roasting them, ensuring the meat is extra tender and flavorful.

2. Citrus Twist

   • Lemon or orange zest: For a citrusy kick, grate some fresh lemon or orange zest over the lamb shanks before roasting them. The zest helps balance the richness of the lamb with a refreshing note, and the citrus oils enhance the aroma during cooking.
   • Citrus glaze: You can create a tangy glaze by combining honey, orange juice, and a splash of soy sauce. Brush this over the lamb towards the end of cooking to give it a shiny, flavorful finish.

3. Spicy Kick

   • Chili and cumin: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of dried chili flakes or some ground cumin to the recipe. The chili will add warmth and depth, while cumin complements the earthy flavors of lamb, creating a more robust taste.
   • Harissa paste: For an even stronger punch of flavor, mix in a teaspoon of harissa paste. This North African chili paste brings a spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor to the lamb.

4. Wine Pairing

   • Red wine marinade: Replace some of the stock or broth with red wine. This adds richness and depth of flavor to the lamb shanks, particularly when the wine is reduced down during cooking. A good choice for the wine is a bold red, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz.
   • White wine and garlic: For a lighter variation, white wine paired with garlic creates a more delicate and zesty sauce, perfect for those who prefer a less intense flavor.

5. Vegetable Companions

   • Roast vegetables: Add some root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes to the pan along with the lamb. These veggies will soak up the flavorful juices, creating a hearty one-pan meal.
   • Fennel: Thinly sliced fennel bulbs tossed into the pan with the lamb bring an aniseed flavor that complements the rich meat beautifully.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks correctly ensures they retain their flavor and remain safe to eat. Here are some key best practices for storing and reheating:

1. Cool The Lamb Shanks Properly

   • Before storing, let the lamb shanks cool to room temperature. This step prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the meat soggy or increase the risk of bacteria growth.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   • Store leftover lamb shanks in airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. If possible, store the meat separately from any sauces or vegetables to help keep the textures intact.

3. Refrigeration

   • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. After this, the quality may deteriorate, and there’s a risk of spoilage.
   • If you plan to keep the lamb longer, freezing is a better option.

4. Freezing For Long-Term Storage

   • To freeze, wrap the lamb shanks tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double layer helps protect the meat from freezer burn. Label the package with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been in the freezer. Leftover lamb shanks can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. Reheating

   • When reheating lamb shanks, it’s important to do so gently to prevent drying out the meat. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature (around 160°C/320°F) with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
   • Alternatively, you can reheat on the stove top with a lid on, adding a bit of stock or gravy to keep the meat tender.

What Goes Well With 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks?

Lamb shanks are a hearty and rich dish, so pairing them with the right sides can elevate the meal. Here are a few great accompaniments that complement the flavor of lamb:

1. Mashed Potatoes

   • Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for lamb. The buttery, smooth texture of the potatoes absorbs the flavorful juices from the lamb, creating a delicious contrast to the rich meat.

2. Grilled Vegetables

   • Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, aubergine (eggplant), or bell peppers bring a smoky, slightly charred flavor that balances the richness of the lamb.

3. Mint Sauce Or Yogurt Sauce

   • A fresh, tangy mint sauce or yogurt-based sauce provides a cooling contrast to the warmth of the lamb, making each bite refreshing and flavorful. The minty note enhances the natural flavor of the lamb, while yogurt adds creaminess.

4. Couscous Or Quinoa

   • A fluffy couscous or quinoa salad, tossed with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, is a great side dish for lamb. These grains absorb the juices from the lamb while providing a light and textural balance to the meal.

5. Roasted Root Vegetables

   • Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes are a perfect choice. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory lamb.

6. Green Beans Or Asparagus

   • Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans or asparagus offer a fresh, crisp contrast to the richness of the lamb shanks.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks recipe offers a fantastic foundation for creating a delicious, fuss-free meal. With just five ingredients, you can prepare a rich, savory dish that’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party.

However, the versatility of this recipe allows you to explore various flavor profiles, from fresh herbs and citrus to spicy additions and wine-infused sauces. And, whether you’re storing leftovers for future meals or pairing the lamb with side dishes, the possibilities are endless for enjoying this dish in different ways. Whether you’re keeping it simple or getting creative with variations, Jamie Oliver’s lamb shanks will never disappoint!.

FAQs

What Are The Five Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shanks Recipe?

The five main ingredients in Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks recipe are lamb shanks, garlic, fresh rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red wine.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks?

It typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to cook Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients lamb shanks, allowing time for slow cooking to achieve tender meat.

Can I Use Other Cuts Of Lamb In Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shank Recipe?

While lamb shanks are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness when slow-cooked, you can substitute other cuts like lamb shoulder. However, you may need to adjust cooking times depending on the cut.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shanks?

Jamie Oliver’s lamb shanks are best served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side of couscous. The rich sauce complements starchy sides well.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shanks Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s lamb shanks in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after resting. You can prepare them a day ahead, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them when ready to serve.

Is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks Recipe Suitable For Freezing?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients lamb shanks can be frozen. After cooking, let them cool completely, then store the lamb shanks and sauce in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I Adjust The Seasoning In Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shanks Recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the seasoning to your taste. While the recipe is simple, you can add extra herbs, spices, or seasoning like salt, pepper, or chili flakes for a more personalized flavor.

What Type Of Wine Should I Use In Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Shanks Recipe?

In Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients lamb shanks recipe, a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz works well. The wine adds depth to the sauce and complements the richness of the lamb.

Do I Need To Brown The Lamb Shanks Before Cooking Them?

Yes, it is recommended to brown the lamb shanks in a hot pan before cooking. This step enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust on the meat.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks Recipe Without Balsamic Vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives still provide the acidity needed to balance the richness of the lamb.