Mediterranean Lamb Shanks with Lemon and Oregano

Ingredients:

4 lamb shanks

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 lemons (juice and zest)

1 cup chicken or beef broth

1/2 cup dry white wine

2 tablespoons dried oregano (or fresh, chopped)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional)

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Sear the Lamb Shanks: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and cook the chopped onions until soft and translucent (5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 2 minutes.

5. Combine Flavors: Add the chicken or beef broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and cumin to the pot. Stir to combine.

6. Braise the Lamb: Return the lamb shanks to the pot, making sure they're partially submerged in the liquid. Add the rosemary sprigs if using. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.

7. Cook Until Tender: Braise the lamb shanks in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Check periodically and add more broth if needed.

8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Garnish the lamb with freshly chopped parsley and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the juices.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal per serving

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Mediterranean dish, perfect for #foodaroundtheworld