Name: Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata Recipe
Prep time: PT-488629H43M30S
Cook time: 4 h 10 min
Total time: PT-488629H43M30S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, small dice; 1 zucchini, small dice; 1 yellow squash, small dice; 1 large Spanish onion, small dice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing; 10 oz. canned San Marzano tomatoes, small dice; 3/4 cup manzanilla olives, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 6 lamb shanks; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, stemmed and chopped; 2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 8 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup whole wheat couscous; 1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock; 1/3 cup almonds; 1/3 cup black currants; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 21 reviews

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in warmth while exciting your palate with layers of flavor, then the Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks with a luscious caponata bursting with the sweetness of roasted vegetables and the tangy punch of olives and San Marzano tomatoes. It’s comfort food elevated, marrying rustic charm with Mediterranean flair in every luscious bite. Once you dive into this Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata, it’s bound to become a cherished meal that you’ll want to share with friends and family on cozy evenings.

Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata plays a distinctive role, contributing crucial textures, flavors, and colors that harmonize perfectly. From the hearty lamb to the vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs, you’ll see how simplicity brings out extraordinary taste.

Eggplant: Offers a meaty texture and absorbs the flavors it cooks with beautifully, essential for a rich caponata base.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Provide sweet notes and a tender bite, balancing the earthiness of eggplant.
Spanish onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
Garlic: Infuses aromatic undertones essential to Mediterranean dishes.
Extra-virgin olive oil: The hallmark of flavor, used generously for sautéing and marinating to keep everything luscious.
San Marzano tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and low acidity elevate the caponata with fresh, vibrant notes.
Manzanilla olives: Bring a briny, tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.
Lamb shanks: The heart of the dish, slow-braised until tender and soaking up rosemary and garlic flavors.
Fresh rosemary: Infuses the lamb marinade with piney fragrance that’s quintessential for a hearty, savory profile.
Whole wheat couscous: Provides a wholesome, nutty base to serve alongside the rich stew.
Low-sodium vegetable stock: Cooks the couscous to fluffy perfection without overpowering the subtle flavors.
Almonds and black currants: Add crunch and bursts of sweetness to the couscous, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance every component thoughtfully.

How to Make Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata

Step 1: Marinate the Lamb Shanks

Begin by tossing those beautiful lamb shanks in fresh rosemary, garlic, and a generous pour of extra-virgin olive oil. This simple marinade is your secret weapon for infusing the meat with herbal and garlicky goodness. If you have the time, letting them rest for 4 hours or overnight allows those flavors to sink in deeply, ensuring every bite is incredibly savory and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Caponata

In a large pot set over low heat, gently cook the diced eggplant, zucchini, yellow squash, onion, garlic, San Marzano tomatoes, and chopped olives. Cover the pot and let the ingredients meld together for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking softens the vegetables to a luscious stew with a beautiful balance of sweetness, acidity, and brininess that defines the caponata.

Step 3: Sear and Braise the Lamb

Season the marinated lamb shanks with salt and pepper before searing them in a hot Dutch oven. A quick 2 minutes on each side will caramelize the exterior and seal in those flavors. After searing, transfer the shanks into the pot with the caponata, cover, and let everything cook slowly for another 2 hours. The lamb becomes incredibly tender while soaking up the sweet & savory juices of the caponata, creating an unforgettable harmony of tastes.

Step 4: Make the Couscous Side

While the lamb braises, toast almonds in olive oil on medium-high heat until they are golden and release their nutty aroma. Add vegetable stock and bring it to a boil, then stir in the couscous and black currants. Cover and let it sit off the heat for 5 minutes so the couscous plumps up and absorbs the flavors. Season this vibrant side dish with salt and pepper to taste; it provides the perfect nutty, sweet contrast to the rich lamb and caponata.

How to Serve Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the dish just before serving. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil can add a lovely sheen and a fresh, fruity aroma to finish. For a bit of texture, scatter toasted almonds on top of the couscous, echoing the nuttiness and adding a charming crunch.

Side Dishes

This Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing salads—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a crisp fennel slaw. Roasted root vegetables or a simple green bean almondine can also complement the rich, bold flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic, family-style approach, serve the lamb shanks right in the pot alongside the caponata, allowing guests to admire the colorful veggies and tender meat. Alternatively, plate a generous scoop of couscous topped with a lamb shank and a spoonful of caponata for an elegant, restaurant-worthy presentation. Don’t forget a wedge of crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftovers of the Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more satisfying.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully if you want to save portions for later. Separate the lamb shanks and caponata into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the textures and flavors. Adding a splash of vegetable stock or water can help keep the dish moist and prevent the lamb from drying out. Reheat the couscous separately or alongside to maintain its fluffy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of lamb instead of shanks?

Absolutely! While shanks are ideal for braising due to their connective tissue and flavor, you can substitute lamb shoulder or even short ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful.

Is this dish suitable for a special occasion?

Definitely! The Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata presents beautifully and tastes gourmet without requiring complicated techniques, making it perfect for celebrations or an impressive dinner party.

How can I make the caponata less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet caponata, reduce the amount of tomatoes slightly or add a splash of vinegar to introduce more tartness and balance the natural sweetness of the vegetables and olives.

Can I prepare the components separately and assemble later?

Yes, you can cook the caponata and lamb shanks in advance, refrigerate them separately, and combine and reheat before serving. This makes for an easy day-of preparation with all the fresh flavors intact.

What can I use if I don’t have San Marzano tomatoes?

While San Marzano is ideal for its sweet and less acidic profile, you can substitute with any good-quality canned plum tomatoes. Just drain and dice them to keep the texture consistent.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a dish that feels homemade yet tastes like it belongs in a gourmet kitchen. The Braised Lamb Shank with Sweet & Savory Caponata invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors that warmth brings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s the kind of meal that lingers in your memory and becomes a beloved classic in your cooking repertoire.