1. Exploring One Of The Best Cuts - Lamb Shanks

Lamb shanks are a flavorful cut taken from the lower leg of the lamb. While they can be tough meat when raw, with the right slow cooking process, they become  fork tender, juicy, and full of rich flavor. Their versatility and deep taste make them a firm favourite among home cooks and chefs alike.

At Halswell Butchery, we provide premium-quality, locally sourced lamb shanks ideal for braising, roasting, or slow cooking. Whether you're planning a dinner party or a quiet family meal, lamb shanks deliver adelicious meal every time.

 

2. Why Lamb Shanks Are So Popular in NZ

• Packed with flavour due to the bone-in cut

• Become fall-off-the-bone tender when slow cooked

• Ideal for comforting meals and elegant presentations alike

• Work beautifully with bold flavours likered wine,fresh herbs, and tomato paste

• Affordable compared to premium cuts of lamb meat

 

 

3. Best Way to Cook Lamb Shanks

Slow Cooking & Braising: The Gold Standard

The best way to cook lamb shanks is to  braise them slowly. This cooking method involves searing the meat in afrying pan orDutch oven, then slow cooking it in abraising liquid likered wine,beef broth, and canned tomatoes. *The alcohol in red wine used for cooking lamb shanks cooks off, so the sauce does not taste boozy.

This slow cooked lamb method ensures the meat becomes tender and soaks up all the beautiful aromatics from the sauce and herbs. The marrow in the lamb shank bone adds flavor and richness to the dish as it cooks.

Pro Tip from Halswell Butchery: Always brown the lamb shanks first on medium-high heat to lock in flavor before transferring to a slow cooker or oven.

 

4. Braised Lamb Shanks: Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 lamb shanks

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup red wine (e.g.,Cabernet Sauvignon)

• 2 cups beef broth orchicken stock

• 400g canned tomatoes

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Lamb: In a large frying pan, heatolive oil over medium-high heat. Season lamb shanks dry with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Remove the shanks and in the same pan, sauté onions and fresh garlic until softened. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

3. Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits. Add beef broth,canned tomatoes, and herbs.

4. Slow Cook: Return lamb shanks to the pot or transfer lamb shanks to aslow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, or in a Dutch oven at 160°C for 2.5–3 hours.

5. Finish: The meat falls off the bone when done. Skim fat, reduce sauce if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Looking for premium lamb shanks? Order online from Halswell Butchery or visit us in-store for butcher-approved cuts.

 

5. Ingredient Tips & Substitutions

• Swap beef broth with chicken broth orstock cubes if needed.

• For a touch of subtle  sweetness, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon zest.

• Prefer a thicker rich red wine sauce? Stir in a bit more tomato paste or reduce the sauce before serving.

Tip: Store leftover sauce in an airtight  container in the fridge overnight for even more depth in flavour the next day.

 

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair yourbraised lamb shank with sides that absorb all the beautiful sauce:

• Creamy mashed potatoes,kumara mash or cauliflower mash

• Serving lamb shanks over a bed of couscous or pasta is a delicious way to enjoy the sauce.

• Butteredgreen beans or roasted carrots

• Crusty bread is an ideal accompaniment to mop up the sauce from lamb shanks

• Adding a big, bright salad, such as arugula salad or tabouli, is recommended to balance the richness of the lamb shanks.

• A glass ofred wine to complement the dish

 

7. Nutrition and Health Benefits of Lamb Shanks

Lamb shanks are not only a flavour-packed cut, but they’re also a nutritionally dense option for home-cooked meals. As a bone-in, slow-cooking cut, lamb shanks offer a range of health benefits:

• High-Quality Protein: Lamb shanks provide complete protein, supporting muscle repair, immune function, and overall strength.

• Rich in Heme Iron: Lamb is a natural source ofheme iron—the form most easily absorbed by the body. This is especially important for individuals at risk of iron deficiency, such as women, children, and athletes.

• Loaded with B Vitamins: Especially high invitamin B12,niacin, andriboflavin, lamb supports brain health, energy metabolism, and nervous system function.

• Packed with Essential Minerals: Lamb shanks contain key nutrients likezinc,phosphorus, andselenium, all crucial for immunity, bone strength, and antioxidant protection.

• Natural Collagen and Gelatin: Slow-cooking breaks down the collagen-rich connective tissue in lamb shanks, yielding gelatin, which supportsgut, joint, and skin health.

With their leaner meat profile, lamb shanks offer a nutritious, satisfying option when trimmed and prepared using slow-cooked or braised methods. A wholesome choice for hearty meals that deliver both comfort and nourishment.

Shop Local: Halswell Butchery is your destination for slow-cooked lamb shanks and all the butcher’s cuts for winter-warming meals. Shop Now.

 

 

8. Lamb Shank Reviews: What Makes a Good One?

A high-quality lamb shank should be firm, fresh, and richly marbled, with a natural pink to red colour and a clean bone structure. When cooked properly—whether as braised lamb shanks, slow-cooked lamb, or in a slow-cooker lamb shanks recipe—the result should befork-tender, juicy, and infused with flavour.

At Halswell Butchery, we source only the finest New Zealand lamb, known for its grass-fed quality and exceptional flavour. Our lamb shanks are prepared fresh and trimmed to perfection—ideal for home cooks and chefs alike.

What Our Customers Say

We’re proud to serve the Halswell community and beyond with lamb shanks that consistently impress. Here’s what a few of our customers have said:

"Friendly and helpful staff, their meat is always good quality" – Andre M.

"Great butchery. Beautifully presented cabinet and better that supermarket prices." – Yvonne B.

"Great value and helpful friendly staff. Quality butchery!"  – Paula B.

 

FAQs

What is a lamb shank?

A lamb shank is the lower part of the leg, cut from either the fore or hind leg of the lamb. It’s a bone-in cut, known for its rich, meaty flavour and tough connective tissue, which becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.

Which cooking method is best for shanks?

The best cooking method forlamb shanks is  slow cooking using moist heat—this includes braising,slow roasting, or using aslow cooker. Popular options include:

• Braised lamb shank in a red wine sauce

• Slow cooker lamb shanks with herbs and vegetables

• Oven-braised lamb shanks in a Dutch oven

These techniques ensure the tough meat becomes fork-tender, while infusing the lamb with flavour from the braising liquid, herbs, and aromatics likefresh rosemary,thyme, and garlic.

Is lamb shank a cheap cut?

Yes,  lamb shank is considered a more affordable cut compared to premium cuts like rack, loin, or leg of lamb. Because it requires long, slow cooking to become tender, it’s often less expensive—making it agreat value option for families or dinner parties seeking flavourful, hearty meals on a budget. When prepared correctly, it offers restaurant-quality results with rich, succulent meat and a deep, satisfying sauce.

Can I make lamb shanks in a crock pot?

Yes,slow cooker lamb shanks are a great hands-off method. Cook on low for 6–8 hours for fork tender meat.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of paste?

While tomato paste is more concentrated,tomato sauce can be used if reduced slightly. Just taste and adjust the seasoning.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

 

9. Visit Halswell Butchery for the Perfect Lamb Shank

Ready to cook the perfect slow-cooked lamb shank at home? At Halswell Butchery, our expert team of butchers and friendly staff can help you select the ideal cut and offer advice on flavour pairings.

We source only the highest quality  lamb meat, ensuring every shank is tender, juicy, and full of flavour. Whether you’re planning a cosy family dinner or a special occasion, we’ll help you get it right from start to finish.

Visit Halswell Butchery  in Christchurch or shop online now for top-quality lamb and local service you can trust.

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