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πŸ– Succulent Moroccan-Style Braised Lamb Shanks πŸ§„πŸŒΏ

This Moroccan-Style Braised Lamb Shanks recipe brings together rich, aromatic spices and tender lamb, slow-cooked to perfection. The succulent meat falls off the bone, infused with flavors of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and more. It’s a warming and hearty dish perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

πŸ“‹ Ingredients:

  • 4 lamb shanks πŸ‘
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil πŸ›’οΈ
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped πŸ§…
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced πŸ§„
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin 🌿
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander 🌿
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌿
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger 🌿
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌢️
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 🌿
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) 🌢️
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes πŸ…
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved πŸ‘
  • 1/4 cup raisins πŸ‡
  • 1/4 cup almonds, toasted πŸ₯œ
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth 🍲
  • 1/2 cup red wine or water 🍷
  • 1 tablespoon honey 🍯
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 🌿
  • Salt and pepper to taste πŸ§‚

πŸ“ Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb Shanks:

  1. Season and sear the lamb:
  • Generously season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the lamb and set aside.

2. SautΓ© the Aromatics:

  1. Cook the onions and garlic:
  • In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  1. Add the spices:
  • Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become aromatic.

3. Braise the Lamb:

  1. Add liquids and fruit:
  • Add the diced tomatoes, broth, red wine (or water), dried apricots, and raisins to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  1. Return the lamb to the pot:
  • Nestle the lamb shanks back into the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Drizzle the honey over the top.
  1. Simmer and braise:
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325Β°F (160Β°C). Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

4. Toast the Almonds:

  1. Toast the almonds:
  • While the lamb is braising, lightly toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.

5. Serve:

  1. Finish the dish:
  • Once the lamb shanks are done, remove them from the oven. Taste the braising liquid and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  1. Garnish:
  • Serve the Moroccan-Style Braised Lamb Shanks over couscous or rice. Garnish with the toasted almonds and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 3 hours
⏱️ Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings
πŸ”₯ Calories: Approximately 600-650 kcal per serving

This Succulent Moroccan-Style Braised Lamb Shanks recipe is deeply flavorful with its blend of spices, tender meat, and sweet dried fruit, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or an indulgent meal! πŸ–πŸŒΏ