Braised Lamb Shanks with Ancho Chiles and Cumin

Name: Braised Lamb Shanks with Ancho Chiles and Cumin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 6 meaty lamb shanks; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 medium Spanish onions, halved and thinly sliced; 6 garlic cloves; 2 celery ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces on the diagonal; 2 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch dice; 4 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded; 2 quarts chicken stock or low-sodium broth

Servings: persons

1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
6 meaty lamb shanks
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 medium Spanish onions, halved and thinly sliced
6 garlic cloves
2 celery ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces on the diagonal
2 large carrots, cut into 1/2-inch dice
4 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
2 quarts chicken stock or low-sodium broth

1
Preheat the oven to 350.
2
In a small bowl, mix the salt with the ancho powder and cumin.
3
Rub the lamb shanks with the ancho mixture.
4
In an enameled cast-iron casserole large enough to hold the lamb shanks, heat the vegetable and olive oils until shimmering.
5
Add the lamb shanks and cook, turning, until well-browned on all sides.
6
Transfer the shanks to a large plate.
7
Reduce the heat to moderate and add the onions, garlic, celery and the carrots to the casserole.
8
Cover and cook, stirring often, until the onions are translucent, about 10 minutes.
9
Return the shanks to the casserole.
10
Add the anchos and stock and bring to a boil.
11
Cover the shanks with a sheet of parchment paper and the lid.
12
Braise the shanks on the bottom rack of the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, turning the shanks halfway through.
13
The shanks are done when the meat is very tender and pulling away from the bones.
14
Transfer the shanks to an ovenproof serving dish and turn off the oven.
15
Cover with foil and keep warm in the oven.
16
Set the casserole over high heat and boil the sauce until reduced to 8 cups, skimming as necessary.
17
Working in batches, puree the braising juices and vegetables until smooth.
18
Strain the sauce over the shanks and serve.

962

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 6 meaty lamb shanks, and more.

Yes, Braised Lamb Shanks with Ancho Chiles and Cumin falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Braised Lamb Shanks with Ancho Chiles and Cumin

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions