Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie

It’s not every day you stumble upon a new favorite dish. And what is there to do but re-create it when you get home? This Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie, a culinary masterpiece discovered at The King’s Head, a charming pub nestled in the heart of London, is a testament to the rich history and evolution of this beloved British classic. With roots tracing back to humble rural kitchens, where thrifty cooks transformed leftover roasted meat and mashed potatoes into a hearty meal, Shepherd’s Pie has undergone a remarkable journey to become a cherished comfort food staple worldwide.

The flavors of this dish are a symphony on the palate, with each element contributing its unique notes to create a captivating culinary experience. The lamb shanks, slow-cooked to perfection, offer a robust and succulent base, their tenderness enhanced by the rich, herb-infused gravy. The vegetables, a trio of onion, carrots, and celery, provide an earthy counterpoint, their natural sweetness and texture complementing the lamb beautifully. Minced garlic and tomato paste add depth and complexity to the sauce, while the red wine imparts a subtle tang and sophistication.

Crowning this medley of flavors is a golden crust of creamy mashed potatoes, their velvety smoothness a comforting contrast to the richness beneath. The combination of textures – the fork-tender lamb, the tender vegetables, and the fluffy potatoes – creates a sensory delight that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

This Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic comfort foods and the importance of preserving culinary traditions while embracing innovation. As you savor each mouthwatering forkful, you’re not only indulging in a delicious meal but also partaking in a piece of British culinary heritage, one that has stood the test of time and continues to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie

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This Lamb Shank’s Shepherd’s Pie is a harmonious blend of tender, slow-cooked lamb shanks, a vibrant medley of vegetables, and a velvety blanket of mashed potatoes, inspired by a dish served at The King’s Head tavern in London.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3-4 hours
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Category: Entrées

Ingredients

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• 2 lamb shanks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef or lamb broth
• 1/2 cup peas
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (see our recipe for Farm-Style Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. In a large ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Deglaze the pot with the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the broth, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and return the lamb shanks to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
6. Remove the lamb shanks from the pot and shred the meat, discarding any bones and excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Add peas.
7. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the lamb mixture to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden and slightly crispy on top.
9. Serve the Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

If you make this Lamb Shank Shepherd’s Pie, let me know what you think!