Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Lamb Shanks recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. The lamb shanks are braised in a flavorful broth, resulting in incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone. The use of the Instant Pot reduces cooking time dramatically, making it a practical yet indulgent meal. The deep flavors from the herbs and spices complement the richness of the lamb, ensuring every bite is packed with goodness. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on cooking, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

4 lamb shanks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the lamb shanks on all sides until they are nicely browned. Remove the lamb shanks and set them aside.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Return the lamb shanks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 50 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to quick release any remaining pressure.
Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and set them aside. If you want to thicken the sauce, set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” again, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, and add it to the sauce. Stir until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serve the lamb shanks with the sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables of your choice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including pressure release)
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Slow Cooker: You can make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot. Brown the lamb shanks in a skillet, then transfer them to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Spicy Version: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the broth to give the dish some heat.
Vegetarian: Replace the lamb with hearty root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes for a delicious vegetarian option.
Lamb Shank with Mint Sauce: Pair the lamb shanks with a refreshing mint sauce or yogurt sauce to add a cool, tangy contrast to the richness of the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as the dish sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Reheating: To reheat, place the lamb shanks and sauce in a pot over low heat until warmed through, or reheat them in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat in the Instant Pot by setting it to “Sauté” mode and simmering until heated.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of lamb instead of shanks?

Yes, you can use other cuts of lamb such as lamb shoulder or leg. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut you use.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors develop even more after a day or two in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

3. Is it necessary to sear the lamb shanks?

While searing adds extra flavor and depth to the dish, it is not absolutely necessary. You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry.

4. Can I make this recipe without wine?

Yes, you can omit the wine and replace it with additional beef broth or water. The wine adds richness, but the dish will still be flavorful without it.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover lamb shanks and sauce for up to 3 months. Just ensure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

6. How do I know when the lamb is done?

The lamb is done when it is fork-tender and easily falls off the bone. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F for optimal tenderness.

7. Can I use a different type of broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter version of the dish, though it may slightly change the flavor.

8. Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy unless you choose to add chili flakes or hot peppers to suit your taste.

9. What should I serve with lamb shanks?

Lamb shanks pair well with mashed potatoes, couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a balanced meal.

10. How do I make the sauce thicker?

You can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with water to make a slurry and then stirring it into the sauce while simmering it in the Instant Pot.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Lamb Shanks recipe is a perfect balance of convenience and luxury. With tender lamb shanks and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends without hours of preparation. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!

Instant Pot Lamb Shanks

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Enjoy tender, fall-off-the-bone Instant Pot Lamb Shanks in a fraction of the time! This rich and flavorful dish is braised in a savory red wine and herb-infused broth, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this Instant Pot recipe will become a family favorite.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Instant Pot / Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Comfort Food

Instructions

Sear the Lamb Shanks:
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil.
- Sear the lamb shanks on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Pressure Cook:
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, submerging them in the liquid.
- Close the lid and set to “Pressure Cook” on High for 50 minutes.
Release Pressure:
- Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
- Remove the lamb shanks and set aside.
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce until thickened.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve the lamb shanks with sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Alternative Cooking Methods: Use a slow cooker (low for 6-8 hours, high for 3-4 hours).
Wine Substitute: Replace with additional beef broth if needed.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño for heat.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.