If you’re looking for a showstopping comfort meal with roots in sun-drenched Mediterranean cuisine, this Mediterranean Lamb Shanks with Lemon and Oregano recipe deserves a spot at your table. Slow-braised until the meat is tender and falling off the bone, these lamb shanks are infused with the bright zest of lemon, warm Mediterranean spices, and a touch of white wine for depth and elegance.

This recipe is a perfect choice for weekend cooking, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings. With just a little prep and a lot of oven time, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish that tastes like it came straight from a coastal Greek taverna.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean lamb dish is:

• Deeply flavorful: The combination of citrus, herbs, and braising liquid creates a rich, aromatic sauce.

• Fork-tender: After hours of slow cooking, the lamb practically melts in your mouth.

• Elegant yet rustic: Sophisticated enough for guests, comforting enough for family dinner.

• One-pot magic: Everything simmers together in one Dutch oven for easy cleanup and maximum flavor infusion.

Whether you’re a lamb enthusiast or new to cooking lamb, this recipe is approachable and delivers phenomenal results.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to create this unforgettable lamb shank recipe:

🥩 For the Braise:

• 4 lamb shanks

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 lemons – zest and juice

• 1 cup chicken or beef broth

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 2 tablespoons dried oregano (or use fresh if available)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven or oven-safe heavy pot with lid

• Tongs (for searing the lamb)

• Wooden spoon (for stirring and deglazing)

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Zester or grater

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Serving platter or shallow bowls

How to Make Mediterranean Lamb Shanks (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) to get it ready for slow braising.

2. Sear the Lamb Shanks

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season lamb shanks with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear each shank for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing. Work in batches if needed to get a good caramelized crust.

3. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the white wine to deglaze. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—this adds tons of flavor. Simmer the wine for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Build the Braising Liquid

Add the broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, cumin, and a bit more salt and pepper if desired. Stir everything together to combine.

6. Return Lamb to the Pot

Nestle the seared lamb shanks back into the pot, ensuring they’re partially submerged in the liquid. Tuck in the rosemary sprigs for added aroma.

7. Braise Low and Slow

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place in the oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, checking occasionally to ensure there’s enough liquid. Add more broth or water as needed.

The lamb is done when it’s easily pulled apart with a fork and the bone slips out with no resistance.

8. Garnish and Serve

Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Serve garnished with chopped parsley and spoon over the delicious pan juices.

Suggested Serving Ideas

These lamb shanks pair beautifully with sides that can soak up the luscious braising sauce:

• Lemon-herb rice or orzo

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Roasted root vegetables

• Crusty sourdough or warm pita bread

• Grilled zucchini or eggplant

Pair with a crisp dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a medium-bodied red like Grenache or Merlot.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration:

Store leftover lamb shanks in an airtight container with the braising liquid. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

These lamb shanks freeze beautifully! Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Reheating:

Place leftovers in a covered baking dish and reheat at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Or reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, spooning the juices over the meat as it warms.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Use bone-in lamb shanks for the most flavor and juiciness.

• Skip the wine: If avoiding alcohol, simply use extra broth and a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice.

• Slow Cooker Option: Sear the lamb and sauté aromatics as usual, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours.

• Fresh Herbs: Swap dried oregano for fresh if available, and add thyme or bay leaves for even more Mediterranean flair.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, the flavor deepens when made a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for lamb?

Beef short ribs or bone-in beef chuck are excellent substitutes if lamb isn’t available or preferred.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

You can use any large oven-safe pot with a lid, or sear the meat in a skillet and transfer everything to a covered roasting pan or deep baking dish.

Does it matter if I use chicken or beef broth?

Both work well, but beef broth will yield a richer, deeper flavor. Use chicken broth for a lighter taste.

Final Thoughts

These Mediterranean Lamb Shanks with Lemon and Oregano are a comforting, fragrant, and utterly satisfying dish that brings the warmth and flavor of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it’s a dish that invites praise and second helpings.

Enjoyed this recipe? Share it with your foodie friends and tag it on social media! And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more Mediterranean-inspired recipes, seasonal cooking guides, and culinary tips to elevate your home cooking game.