Lamb Shanks with Lentils

Transport yourself to the idyllic countryside of southern France with this hearty and rustic one-pot meal: French Lentils with Lamb. This classic French dish combines tender lentils du Puy, succulent lamb shanks, aromatic vegetables, and a generous splash of red wine, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Slowly simmered for hours, the lentils soak up all the rich flavors of the lamb and wine, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and deeply satisfying.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: At least 2 hours, largely unattended

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 ounces dried lentils, preferably lentilles du Puy, rinsed and picked over
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 bottle dry red wine, or more as needed
• 4 lamb shanks, about 1 pound each
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat the oven to 400°F. Combine the lentils, carrots, onion, thyme, garlic, bay leaves, and wine in a roasting pan or Dutch oven and stir; bring to a boil on top of the stove, then nestle the lamb shanks among the lentils, cover the pan (aluminum foil will do), and put it in the oven. Lower the heat to 350°F and cook, undisturbed, for about an hour.
2. Uncover and stir the lentils gently; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Re-cover and cook for about an hour longer, until the lentils are very tender and the lamb begins to pull away from the bone. If at any point the mixture threatens to dry out, add more liquid wine or water. Don’t worry about overcooking the lentils; just make sure the lamb is done.
3. When the lamb is tender, uncover the pan, raise the heat to 400°F, and cook for another 15 minutes or so, just to brown the top a bit.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning and serve or refrigerate for up to a day before reheating.

VARIATION:

For an even richer flavor, you can sear the lamb shanks first by following Step 1 of the previous recipe.

This French Lentils with Lamb recipe embodies the essence of French home-cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. The combination of earthy lentils, aromatic herbs, and tender lamb shanks cooked in red wine creates a dish that warms the soul and comforts the heart. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rustic charm and unforgettable taste. Savor the flavors of the French countryside with this delightful French Lentils with Lamb recipe, and let it transport you to a picturesque setting of rolling hills and vineyards. Bon appétit!

TIPS:

• For the best results, use high-quality lentils like “lentilles du Puy” in this recipe. These French green lentils are known for their unique peppery flavor and ability to hold their shape during cooking.
• Opt for lamb shanks that are about 1 pound each. This size ensures even cooking and tender meat.
• For an extra layer of flavor, consider pre-searing the lamb shanks before braising. Searing the lamb in a hot pan with a little oil until browned adds depth and richness to the final dish.
• The key to this dish’s success is the slow and gentle cooking process. Allow the lentils and lamb to simmer at a low temperature, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
• Throughout the cooking process, keep an eye on the liquid level. If the lentils appear dry or the wine has evaporated, add more liquid (wine or water) to maintain the desired consistency and prevent sticking.
• Be mindful of the salt content, especially if using store-bought stock, as it may already contain salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking, if needed.

This French Lentils with Lamb recipe is a testament to the art of slow cooking, where patience and simplicity yield extraordinary flavors. Following these tips will ensure your culinary journey to the French countryside is a resounding success, leaving your guests impressed and your taste buds delighted. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this rustic one-pot meal and savor every moment of its delectable flavors. Bon appétit!