Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks are a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your dinner table. This recipe features tender, juicy lamb shanks cooked low and slow with hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, lamb shanks are incredibly flavorful when cooked properly. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and savory meal. Additionally, it requires minimal active cooking time, making it easy for anyone to prepare. Furthermore, the combination of olives, sundried tomatoes, and spices brings an authentic Greek twist that you and your family will love.
How to Make Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks
Making Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks is straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 lamb shanks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound halved baby potatoes
- 1 cup Kalamata olives
- 1 jar sundried tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Directions:
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the 4 lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
- Brown the lamb shanks on each side for about 3-4 minutes until they get a nice color.
- In the same skillet, add 1 pound of halved baby potatoes, 1 cup of Kalamata olives, and 1 jar of sundried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice into the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Place the browned lamb shanks on top of the mixture in the slow cooker and rub them with the Greek spice rub made from dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, and onion powder.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is tender.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks
Serve the Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks hot, straight from the slow cooker. You can pair them with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the cooking juices over the shanks for extra flavor!
How to Store Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the lamb shanks and any sauce in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the shanks for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks
- Do not rush the browning process; it adds flavor to the meat.
- If you love a splash of acidity, add some more lemon juice before serving.
- Feel free to include other veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
Variation
You can switch up this recipe by using other meats, such as beef shanks or chicken thighs. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of lamb shanks?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Adjust the cooking time to 4-6 hours on low.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces lamb shanks Seasoned with salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For browning the lamb
- 1 pound halved baby potatoes
- 1 cup Kalamata olives
- 1 jar sundried tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Spices
- 2.5 teaspoons dried oregano For the Greek spice rub
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preparation and Browning
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the 4 lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
- Brown the lamb shanks on each side for about 3-4 minutes until they get a nice color.
Slow Cooking
- In the same skillet, add 1 pound of halved baby potatoes, 1 cup of Kalamata olives, and 1 jar of sundried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice into the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Place the browned lamb shanks on top of the mixture in the slow cooker and rub them with the Greek spice rub made from dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, and onion powder.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Serving
- Serve the Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks hot, straight from the slow cooker, paired with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad.
- Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the shanks for extra flavor.
