Description
Experience the magic of Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks, where tender lamb shanks simmer slowly in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices, creating effortless, flavorful meals perfect for any day of the week. This dish combines rich, savory Mediterranean flavors with juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat that is elegant enough for guests and easy enough for a weekday dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Oils
- 4 meaty lamb shanks, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Liquids and Sauces
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (natural)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Trim excess fat off the lamb shanks for a cleaner flavor and better texture. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the smoked turkey bacon to set the stage for layers of flavor.
- Brown the Lamb Shanks: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly sear the lamb shanks on all sides until golden brown, locking in juices and adding complexity to the finished dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped smoked turkey bacon. Sauté until softened and fragrant, creating a rich base that will infuse the slow cooker mixture.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned lamb shanks and sautéed aromatics into the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), fresh herbs (oregano, rosemary, thyme), and a pinch of natural gelling agent. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone. The long, slow heat will develop deep flavors and melt the meat beautifully.
- Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice: Once cooking is complete, stir in fresh lemon juice (natural) to brighten the flavors. Season gently with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Sear the lamb shanks before slow cooking to add richness and depth.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the most vibrant Mediterranean taste.
- Cooking on low heat helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
- Add ingredients in stages to layer and balance flavors.
- Taste and adjust acidity with more apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if necessary before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lamb shank with sauce
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Greek lamb shanks, slow cooker lamb, Mediterranean lamb, easy lamb recipe, tender lamb shanks, slow simmer lamb