Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks

1. Sear the Lamb Shanks (instructions on how to sear down the bottom below):

1. Heat olive oil in casserole pot . Brown lamb shanks on both sides (3 mins each side - or until browned nicely). Remove and set aside in slow cooker.

2. Sauté the Base:

1. Add a little more olive oil to the pan. Sauté onion, celery and carrot for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add crushed garlic, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Assemble in Slow Cooker:

1. Add browned lamb shanks, sautéed veggies, diced tomatoes, tomato purée, beef stock. Stir gently to combine.

4. Cook Low and Slow:

1. • Low: 8 hours
2. • High: 4–5 hours
3. Until lamb is falling off the bone.
4. 🔥 How to Sear Lamb Shanks

🧂 Step-by-Step Guide:

1. 1. Pat dry the lamb shanks with paper towel – this helps them brown better.
2. 2. Season well with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. 3. Heat a heavy pan (cast iron or stainless steel works best) over medium-high heat until hot.
4. 4. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it shimmer (but not smoke).
5. 5. Add lamb shanks without crowding (2 at a time if needed).
6. 6. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, turning with tongs until each side is deep golden brown. Don’t move them around too much—let them form a crust.
7. • Total time: ~8–10 minutes for all sides.
8. • Goal: A nice brown crust on the outside, not fully cooked through—just browned.
9. 7. Remove and set aside while you sauté the veg or transfer directly to the slow cooker.
10. ⸻

🔁 Tips:

1. • Use medium-high, not full-high heat—to avoid burning.