This recipe for French onion braised lamb shanks is a two-for-one special: you get a deeply flavoured rich French onion soup, as well as tender slow-cooked lamb. Each bowl is finished with a crispy, Gruyère-laden toast, acting as the traditional ‘lid’ for the soup.
Preheat the oven to 150°C fan. Season the lamb shanks. Heat a large casserole with a little oil and sear the shanks on all sides until well browned. Remove and set aside
Lower the heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions, brown sugar and thyme. Cook gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are very soft and caramelised. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute, then pour in the white wine and simmer for a few minutes
Return the seared shanks to the pot, pour in the stock and add the bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer
Cover and cook in the oven for 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes, or until the lamb is falling off the bone
Spoon the onions and broth into bowls, top with a lamb shank and finish with a Gruyère toast lid
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