Name: Instant Pot Lamb Shanks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon cumin or coriander seeds; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 pieces lamb shanks; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 piece onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup potatoes, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe Save it for later

If you are looking for a dish that melts in your mouth and offers an abundance of flavor while being surprisingly easy to prepare, look no further than these Instant Pot Lamb Shanks. Using the magic of the Instant Pot, this recipe brings together tender, juicy lamb shanks infused with a delightful blend of spices and cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time traditional methods would require. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal to entertain guests, this dish is sure to become a regular in your cooking repertoire.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Lamb shanks are a cut of meat that shines when cooked slowly, traditionally requiring hours of braising to break down the tough fibers. However, with an Instant Pot, you can achieve that same tender, succulent texture in less than an hour! Not only that, but the spices in this recipe create a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and richness. Pair these lamb shanks with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a hearty, comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Instant Pot Lamb Shanks, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon cumin or coriander seeds
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 lamb shanks
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup potatoes, chopped (optional)

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

How To Make Instant Pot Lamb Shanks

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First things first, make sure your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and dice your carrots and potatoes if using. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb Shanks

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat. Once shimmering, add the lamb shanks and sear them on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors. Once browned, remove them and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions become translucent. This will create a delicious base for the sauce.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin or coriander seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the onions and garlic in the spices, allowing the mixture to cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Add the Lamb Shanks and Liquid

Return the seared lamb shanks to the pot, nestling them among the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the lamb is partially submersed—but not fully submerged.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 50 minutes. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes before turning the valve to vent any remaining steam.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the lamb shanks from the pot and place them on a serving platter. If desired, you can use the sauté function again to reduce the remaining sauce for a few minutes to thicken it up. Drizzle the sauce over the shanks and serve with your choice of sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy the incredible flavors and tender meat!

Expert Tips

For added richness, consider adding a splash of Grape juice to the broth before sealing the pot.
Make sure to sear the lamb shanks well; this step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you’re sautéing the vegetables.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.

Variations and Customizations

For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and capers to the pot during pressure cooking.
Substitute the vegetable broth for chicken or beef broth for a different flavor profile.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for additional nutrition and flavor.
If you love the sweetness of root vegetables, consider adding parsnips or sweet potatoes.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the lamb shanks in their sauce for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?

Yes! While lamb shanks are ideal for this recipe due to their rich flavor and tenderness, you can also use lamb shoulder or leg cuts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shoulder cuts may cook more quickly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lamb shanks ahead of time through the pressure cooking step, then allow them to cool and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove.

What should I serve with lamb shanks?

Lamb shanks pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad. Consider roasted or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal!

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Consider using fresh rosemary or thyme for addition to the recipe.

Conclusion

There you have it! Your ultimate guide to making Instant Pot Lamb Shanks that will impress your family and friends alike. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that is not only tender and delicious but also makes the house smell heavenly. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your Instant Pot, and savor the warmth of home-cooked lamb shanks. Enjoy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe