Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks Recipe

If you love hearty, rich and comforting meals, this Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks Recipe is perfect for you. The lamb shanks are slow-cooked until tender, falling off the bone and full of flavor.

Aromatic vegetables and herbs create a delicious sauce that’s perfect for mopping up with bread or mashed potatoes.

I enjoy making this dish on weekends when there’s time to cook slowly and fill the house with amazing aromas. Today, I’ll show you how to make Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks with simple ingredients and easy steps anyone can follow.

Why I Love Making This Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks

I first tried this recipe during a cozy Sunday lunch at home. The smell of slow-cooked lamb filled the kitchen, making everyone’s mouths water.

I love making it because it’s impressive but not complicated. The lamb becomes so tender that it melts in your mouth. The sauce is rich, flavorful and comforting.

It’s a dish that brings family together and the leftovers taste even better the next day. It’s perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal.

Equipment List

• Large heavy-bottomed casserole or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs for handling meat
• Oven or stovetop with a low heat option

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 mins
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 mins
• Course: Main
• Cuisine: British / Slow-cooked
• Calories: 600 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks

• 4 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 2 sticks celery, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 400g chopped tomatoes (canned)
• 500ml beef or lamb stock
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 100ml red wine for extra richness

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Lamb Shanks

Pat the lamb shanks dry with kitchen paper. Season generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large casserole or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure it is hot but not smoking.

3. Brown the Lamb Shanks

Add lamb shanks to the hot oil. Brown all sides evenly for about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

Add sliced onions, chopped carrots and celery to the pan. Cook gently until softened and fragrant.

5. Add Garlic and Tomato Purée

Stir in crushed garlic and tomato purée. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release aromas.

6. Deglaze with Wine (Optional)

If using, pour in red wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

7. Add Stock and Tomatoes

Return the lamb shanks to the pan. Add chopped tomatoes and stock, ensuring the shanks are mostly covered.

8. Add Herbs and Seasoning

Add thyme, rosemary, salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine, but don’t break the meat.

9. Slow Cook

Cover the pan with a lid and cook in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) or on low stovetop heat for 2–2.5 hours.

10. Check and Serve

Check if the lamb is tender. The meat should fall off the bone easily. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread and spoon the sauce over.

Read More: Hairy Bikers Chow Mein Recipe

Expert Tips & Variations

• Use a heavy casserole for even cooking and better heat retention.
• Marinate lamb shanks in olive oil, garlic and herbs for a few hours for deeper flavor.
• Add root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra richness.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
• Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Lamb shanks are a traditional British dish, often slow-cooked to make cheaper cuts tender and delicious. The Hairy Bikers popularized easy, rustic recipes that feel like home cooking but are full of flavor.

Slow-cooking transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

This lamb shank recipe pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered vegetables or roasted root vegetables. Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed greens for balance.

A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a British-inspired meal, add crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Occasion or Event Ideas

• Sunday family lunches
• Special celebrations or birthdays
• Cozy winter dinners
• Romantic weekend dinners at home
• Festive gatherings where comfort food is appreciated

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of stock if needed.
• Lamb shanks taste even better the next day as flavors develop.
• Freezing is possible; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Nutrition Information

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (approx)
Lamb shanks	4	1200 kcal
Olive oil	2 tbsp	240 kcal
Vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, garlic)	—	150 kcal
Tomatoes (canned)	400g	80 kcal
Stock	500ml	40 kcal
Total per serving (4)	—	600 kcal

Health Benefits

Lamb is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, zinc and iron. It helps build muscles, supports immunity, and provides long-lasting energy.

Vegetables in the recipe add fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, promoting digestion and overall health. Cooking slowly allows nutrients to stay intact while creating a rich, flavorful sauce that is both nourishing and satisfying.

FAQs about Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks

Q1: Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, place the lamb shanks and all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours for tender results.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the shanks a day ahead and reheat gently. The flavors develop even more overnight.

Q3: Can I freeze leftover lamb shanks?
Yes, freeze cooked lamb shanks in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly.

Q4: How can I make the sauce thicker?
Remove the lid during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking or simmer uncovered on low heat until reduced.

Q5: Can I use other herbs besides rosemary and thyme?
Yes, bay leaves, oregano or sage work well. Stick to herbs that pair with slow-cooked lamb for best flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Hairy Bikers Lamb Shanks Recipe is hearty, rich and perfect for any occasion. The meat becomes tender and flavorful and the sauce is comforting and delicious.

It’s ideal for family meals, cozy weekends or special gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home cooking collection.

Enjoy with mashed potatoes, crusty bread or your favorite sides for a truly satisfying meal.