Moroccan Lamb Shanks

Moroccan lamb shank is a classic dish that is loved by many around the world. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. The dish is typically made with slow-cooked lamb shanks and a blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables that create a rich and aromatic sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and yields tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks that are full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp ras el hanout spice mix (or a blend of cumin, coriander, ginger, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a large tangine or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and set them aside.
4. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the same pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, honey, and spices to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add the lamb shanks back to the pot, making sure they are fully submerged in the sauce.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb shanks are tender and fall off the bone.
9. Once the lamb shanks are done, remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
10. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce and reduce it over medium-high heat until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
11. Serve the lamb shanks with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Moroccan lamb shank with your favorite side dishes such as couscous or roasted vegetables. The flavors of the spices and herbs in the sauce will make this meal a memorable one.