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Spiced Ruby Lamb Shanks

This elegant recipe for spiced ruby lamb shanks is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening. By slow-roasting the meat in a sophisticated blend of ruby port, cinnamon and citrusy lemon, the lamb becomes incredibly tender while the sauce reduces into a rich, aromatic glaze. It is a wonderful choice for those seeking a dairy-free main course that doesn't compromise on deep, savoury flavour or texture.

Perfect for a Sunday lunch or an effortless dinner party, these shanks are best served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or seasonal root vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce. The addition of honey and plum tomatoes provides a subtle sweetness that balances the warmth of the spices perfectly. This homemade classic is sure to become a firm favourite for any special occasion.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spiced Ruby Lamb Shanks

  • 2 lemons

  • 8 lamb shanks (foreshanks), about 350g each

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 8 cloves of garlic, peeled

  • 2 cinnamon sticks

  • 1 can (800g) peeled plum tomatoes, chopped, with juices

  • 2 tablespoons each: tomato paste and honey

  • 475ml ruby port wine

  • 240ml beef broth

  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (plus 2 to 3 large bunches, for garnish)

  • 2 bay leaves

How to make Spiced Ruby Lamb Shanks

  1. Blanch the lemons in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain. Cut into 8 wedges each, discarding seeds.

  2. Preheat the oven to 350°:F. Season the lamb with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large, ovenproof casserole over medium-high heat. Brown the shanks well, 2 at a time, about 6 minutes each, turning. Remove to a plate. Pour the fat from the casserole and wipe clean.

  3. Heat the remaining oil in the casserole over low heat. Add the lemons, garlic and cinnamon; cook for 2 minutes, stirring; crush the lemons slightly. Add the remaining ingredients; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cook for 2 minutes.

  4. Return the lamb to the casserole, cover and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake until tender, about 45 minutes more, basting occasionally.

  5. Remove the lamb to a large, shallow platter. Discard the cinnamon,thyme and bay leaves. Defat the sauce, then spoon it over the lamb. Garnish with the bunches of thyme.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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