If you are craving a dish that wraps you in the warm embrace of aromatic spices and tender, fall-off-the-bone meat, then you’re going to love this Persian Spiced Lamb Shanks Recipe. It’s a beautiful blend of exotic flavors and comforting textures that transform simple lamb shanks into a soul-satisfying feast. This recipe celebrates rich Persian spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron, marrying them perfectly with slow-cooked lamb to create a dish that feels both special and utterly homey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet each one plays a vital role in crafting the deep, layered flavors and succulent texture of the lamb. From the robust spices to the hearty broth, every element adds its own character, whether it’s color, aroma, or richness.
- Lamb shanks (4, about 300g/10oz each): The star of the dish, perfect for slow cooking to tenderness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Vegetable oil (1 – 2 tbsp): Used for browning the lamb and sautéing aromatics.
- Large onion (1, sliced): Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.
- Garlic cloves (6, chopped): Brings warmth and pungency to the dish.
- Water (1 litre / 4 cups): Helps create the cooking liquid for tenderizing the meat.
- Chicken broth (500 ml / 2 cups): Adds savory body and richness to the stew.
- Medium tomatoes (2, chopped): Provide subtle acidity and brightness to balance the spices.
- Turmeric (1 tsp): Gives an earthy flavor and golden color.
- Salt (3/4 tsp): Balances and elevates all the tastes in the dish.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp): Offers a sweet, warm spice that enhances flavor complexity.
- Cardamom powder (1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp): Imparts floral and citrus notes that are signature to Persian cooking.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp + 1/8 tsp extra): Rounds out the spice blend with cozy sweetness.
- Saffron threads (1/4 tsp): A luxurious touch that brings unique aroma and a vibrant hue.
How to Make Persian Spiced Lamb Shanks Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Lamb Shanks
Start by sprinkling the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a heavy-based pot over medium-high heat and brown the shanks on all sides. Browning is key for flavor—it locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
After browning, remove the shanks and discard excess oil if needed. Add another tablespoon of oil, then sauté the sliced onions and chopped garlic until translucent and fragrant, about two minutes. This step creates the flavor foundation that will carry through the whole dish.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in turmeric, cinnamon, chopped tomatoes, and salt. The tomatoes break down to add body and slight acidity, balancing the rich spices and lamb fat nicely.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Bring to a Simmer
Add the chicken broth and mix well with the aromatics and spices. Return the lamb shanks to the pot and add water until they are three-quarters or fully submerged, with a maximum of one litre of water. If the shanks aren’t fully covered, prepare a cartouche to help keep the moisture in during cooking.
Step 5: Slow Cook for Rich Tenderness
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a slight crack to avoid overflow, and cook the lamb for about 1.5 hours, turning the shanks every 30 minutes. This slow cooking phase allows the meat to become beautifully tender.
Step 6: Add Final Spices and Continue Cooking
After the initial simmer, stir in the cardamom and nutmeg into the cooking liquid. Continue to cook gently for another hour. This gradual infusion of spices deepens the flavor profoundly, making each bite a delightful blend of aromatic warmth and savory richness.
Step 7: Rest the Meat
Carefully remove the lamb shanks from the pot and place them in a bowl, covering with foil to keep warm. Letting the meat rest briefly helps it settle and stay juicy when served.
How to Serve Persian Spiced Lamb Shanks Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top adds a cozy touch and a pop of color. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro also provide a bright, fresh contrast to the richly spiced lamb. Toasted nuts such as pistachios or almonds bring a lovely crunch and a nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the Persian flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Serve these spiced lamb shanks alongside fluffy saffron rice or buttery couscous to soak up all that magnificent sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp, refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad also complement the dish perfectly by balancing its richness and bringing fresh textures to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try presenting the lamb shanks on a large platter with vibrant pomegranate seeds scattered over the top for a burst of sweetness and beautiful color contrast. Layer the meat over a bed of herbed rice or bed of roasted root vegetables to impress your guests visually while promising a harmonious flavor experience in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Persian Spiced Lamb Shanks Recipe leftovers keep incredibly well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store in an airtight container with some of the cooking liquid to maintain moisture and flavor. Simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the meat.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for batch cooking. Cool the lamb shanks completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing the richness and texture that make this recipe so special.
Reheating
Reheat lent slow on the stove or in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the lamb tough. A gentle simmer in the sauce will restore the dish’s luscious texture and keep every bite bursting with the characteristic Persian spices.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of lamb besides shanks?
Absolutely! While shanks are ideal for slow cooking due to their connective tissue and rich flavor, you can substitute with lamb shoulder or leg chops if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to achieve tenderness.
Where can I find the spices for this recipe?
Turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and saffron are commonly available at most well-stocked grocery stores or specialty spice shops. For authentic flavor, consider visiting a Middle Eastern or Persian market where these spices are often fresher and more vibrant.
Is saffron necessary in the recipe?
Saffron is a wonderful addition for that signature aroma and golden hue, but it is optional if you’re on a budget. The dish will still have incredible flavor without it, thanks to the other spices.
How long does the cooking process take from start to finish?
The preparation takes about 10 minutes, and the slow cooking process requires approximately 2.5 to 3 hours total, ensuring the lamb becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while infused with fragrant spices.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the lamb shanks as directed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours or until the meat is tender. You may want to reduce added water slightly since slow cookers retain more moisture.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the utterly comforting and delightfully aromatic Persian Spiced Lamb Shanks Recipe. It’s a dish that invites slow, savored meals and lively conversation, perfect for any occasion when you want to impress with something truly delicious and heartfelt. Once you make it, it just might become one of your all-time favorites to share around the table.
