Introduction
Burns Night is a celebration of the Scottish poet Robert Burns, and what better way to commemorate this occasion than with a delicious dish of lamb shanks? Jamie Oliver’s recipe for Burns Night Lamb Shanks captures the essence of hearty Scottish cuisine, merging tender meat with rich and aromatic flavors. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends while paying homage to a beloved cultural tradition.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 lamb shanks
– Olive oil
– 2 onions, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery sticks, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon tomato purée
– 500ml red wine
– 500ml chicken stock
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Zest of 1 lemon
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delicious dish is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients, chopping vegetables, and getting the lamb shanks ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the lamb shanks takes around 3 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful as it simmers. The total time from start to finish, including preparation and cooking, is approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. This recipe yields 2 servings, perfect for a cozy, intimate gathering on Burns Night.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients needed for the dish. This includes lamb shanks, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to a temperature of 160°C (320°F) to prepare for slow cooking.
Season the lamb shanks
Generously season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
Brown the lamb shanks
In a large oven-proof pot, heat some olive oil on medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and sear them until they are browned on all sides. This locks in the juices and develops flavor.
Add the vegetables
Once browned, remove the lamb shanks and set them aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they soften and start to caramelize.
Add the garlic and herbs
Stir in minced garlic and a selection of fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Deglaze the pot
Pour in some red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add depth to the sauce.
Add stock and return the lamb
Add lamb or beef stock to the pot, then return the browned lamb shanks. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
Cover and roast
Cover the pot with a lid or foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast the lamb shanks for approximately 3 hours, or until they are tender and falling off the bone.
Thicken the sauce
After the lamb shanks are cooked, remove them from the pot and set aside. Simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce and thicken it to your desired consistency.
Serve the dish
Place the lamb shanks on a serving plate and pour the thickened sauce over them. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for presentation.
Notes
Cooking time may vary
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size of the lamb shanks. Always check for tenderness.
Wine substitution
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with extra stock or a splash of vinegar.
Serving suggestions
Lamb shanks pair well with creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage advice
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
This technique involves cooking the lamb shanks at a low temperature for an extended period. This allows the meat to become tender and succulent, making it easy to pull apart.
Brown the Meat
Before slow cooking, searing the lamb shanks in a hot pan creates a rich flavor and a beautiful brown crust. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Deglazing
After browning the meat, adding liquid to the pan helps to deglaze it. Scraping up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom incorporates those flavors into the sauce.
Simmering
Simmering the sauce with vegetables and herbs helps to meld the flavors together. This process allows the ingredients to infuse into the meat during the slow cooking phase.
Reducing the Sauce
After cooking, reducing the sauce by boiling it helps to concentrate the flavors, resulting in a rich, thick sauce that complements the lamb perfectly.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of meat instead of lamb shanks?
While lamb shanks are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with other cuts, but cooking times may vary.
How long should I cook the lamb shanks?
Cook the lamb shanks for several hours at low heat until they are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
What can I serve with lamb shanks?
Lamb shanks pair well with mashed potatoes, root vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lamb shanks ahead of time and reheat them before serving. The flavors often improve after a day in the fridge.
Is it necessary to brown the meat before slow cooking?
While not mandatory, browning the meat adds depth of flavor and a nice color to the finished dish.
Conclusion
Enjoying Jamie Oliver’s Burns Night Lamb Shanks provides a unique and flavorful dining experience, perfect for any occasion. The tender meat combined with rich, aromatic flavors creates a heartwarming dish that can bring friends and family together. This recipe not only celebrates tradition but also elevates it with modern cooking techniques that foster warmth and comfort in every bite.
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