There’s something special about the aroma of slow-cooked lamb shanks braising over a charcoal grill. Combining two favorite cooking methods—braising and grilling—this recipe brings deep, rich, smoky flavors to the tender lamb shanks, creating an unforgettable dish perfect for sharing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to braise lamb shanks on the Weber GBS Kettle, using a cast iron wok to draw out layers of flavor that are sure to impress family and friends.
Braising is a classic technique, treasured for transforming tough cuts of meat, like lamb shanks, into tender, flavor-packed bites. The secret to a perfect braise is in slow-cooking the meat in a flavorful liquid, allowing it to infuse gradually. By using the Weber GBS Kettle, you add an extra layer of smoky depth to the dish that can’t be achieved on a stovetop or in an oven. Here’s why the Weber is ideal for this method:
With the right equipment and ingredients, this recipe is a fun, rewarding way to elevate your cooking skills.
Peel and chop the aromatics first. Garlic can be roughly chopped, as it will break down while braising, enhancing the flavor of the sauce. Chop onions and parsnips into medium chunks so they simmer well in the braising liquid.
Add lump charcoal to one side of the Weber for indirect heat. Light the charcoal and let it reach a high temperature. This arrangement creates a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for slow-cooking.
Place the cast iron wok over the hot charcoal. Once the wok is hot, add a small amount of oil. Place the lamb shanks in the wok, searing each one until golden brown on all sides, locking in juices and forming a delicious crust. Remove the lamb shanks and set them aside.
Add chopped onions, garlic, and parsnips to the wok. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables start to caramelize, forming a flavorful base for the braise.
Pour a cup of red wine into the wok, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom to incorporate them into the sauce. This technique, known as deglazing, ensures that all the flavors from the seared lamb and sautéed vegetables make it into the braising liquid. Let the wine reduce slightly.
Add a can of crushed tomatoes, a cup of beef or lamb stock, fresh basil, and your preferred seasonings to the wok. Stir to mix everything thoroughly. Place the seared lamb shanks back into the wok, nestling them in the liquid so they’re partially submerged.
Cover the grill and adjust the Weber’s vents to maintain a medium-low temperature. This slow, steady heat is ideal for braising, allowing the flavors to meld while preventing the liquid from evaporating too quickly.
Let the lamb shanks cook undisturbed for about three hours, checking every hour. If the liquid reduces too much, add a little water to keep the shanks partially submerged. You’ll know the shanks are ready when the meat becomes fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
When your lamb shanks are perfectly braised, consider serving them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, garlic sautéed green beans, or roasted root vegetables. Spoon some of the rich, flavorful sauce from the wok over the lamb and sides for added depth.
Pair this dish with a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, which complements the richness of the lamb and the smokiness from the grill. For a fresh contrast, add a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Cooking braised lamb shanks on a Weber GBS Kettle is a culinary experience that brings together the best of both worlds smoky, grilled flavor and tender, braised meat. This method goes beyond traditional stovetop or oven braising, providing an opportunity to experiment with outdoor cooking techniques while enjoying the rich flavors of a slow-cooked dish.
With the right equipment, ingredients, and a bit of patience, you can create lamb shanks that are not only tender but also infused with a smoky depth that only charcoal grilling can achieve. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy meal with loved ones, this braised lamb shank recipe on the Weber will elevate your grilling game and leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this unique take on lamb, and savor the fusion of grilled and braised flavors in every bite.
This Braised Lamb Shanks recipe brings together the best of braising and grilling for a deeply flavorful and tender dish. Cooked over a Weber GBS Kettle with a cast iron wok, each lamb shank is seared for a caramelized crust, then slowly braised in red wine, crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. The result is succulent lamb that falls off the bone with every bite, infused with rich, smoky notes from the charcoal grill. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe is a showstopper for gatherings or a cozy dinner night.
