Join me in making this easy and juicy 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks, an Australian delight that needs no wine, just 4 lamb shanks, French onion soup mix, orange marmalade, and rosemary.

To make this 4 Ingredients Lamb Shanks recipe in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply place the lamb shanks and rosemary in the slow cooker, mix the marmalade, soup mix, and water, pour over the lamb, and cook on low for 8 hours.

There’s nothing like a juicy, slow-cooked bowl of lamb shanks to welcome the cooler months! Use your slow cooker or brown them first, then simmer covered for 4 hours.

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Is This Recipe Suitable for Making Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, this lamb shank recipe is great for preparing ahead. You can assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and start it the next morning. This enhances the flavors and makes your day easier.

Can I Use a Different Type of Marmalade Instead of Orange?

Yes, you can use different types of marmalade such as lemon or grapefruit. Each brings a unique flavor that complements the lamb well. Experimenting with different marmalades can tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

4 ingredients slow cooker lamb shanks Ingredients

• 4 lamb shanks
• 40 grams of French onion soup mix
• 115 grams (about ⅓ cup) of orange marmalade
• 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, plus additional for garnish

How To Make 4 ingredients slow cooker lamb shanks

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the lamb shanks and four sprigs of rosemary in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, French onion soup mix, and 120 ml (½ cup) of water until the mixture is smooth.
3. Cook: Pour the marmalade mixture over the lamb shanks in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set the cooker to low. Let it cook for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
4. Serve: Transfer the cooked lamb shanks to plates and spoon some of the cooking juices over them. Garnish with additional rosemary sprigs for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Recipe Tips

• Monitor the Sauce: Ensure the sauce doesn’t dry out; if it seems low halfway through cooking, add an extra quarter cup of water to keep everything moist and tender.
• Choosing Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is ideal for this recipe; it infuses the lamb with a crisp, aromatic flavor that dried rosemary simply can’t match.
• Lamb Shank Prep: To enhance flavor, brown the lamb shanks in a skillet on high heat for a few minutes on each side before slow cooking.
• Marmalade Alternatives: If orange marmalade isn’t your favorite, try apricot preserves for a slightly tart flavor profile that also complements the lamb beautifully.

Recipe Variations

• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture if you enjoy a spicy kick with your lamb. This adds a vibrant layer of heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the marmalade.
• Herb Alternatives: Instead of rosemary, consider using thyme or sage for a different herbal note that also pairs well with lamb and marmalade.
• Vegetable Addition: Toss in some carrots and onions around the lamb shanks before cooking; they’ll absorb the sauce’s flavors and add a nutritious component to your meal.
• Wine Infusion: Replace half of the water with red wine for a deeper flavor profile; the wine adds complexity and richness that elevates the dish.
• Citrus Twist: Swap the orange marmalade for lemon or lime marmalade for a citrusy tang that brings a fresh zest to the slow-cooked lamb shanks.

Can I Cook the Lamb Shanks on High Instead of Low?

Cooking the lamb shanks on high is possible, but I recommend cooking on low for the best results. High heat will cook them faster, but slow cooking on low makes them more tender. If you’re short on time, high for 4 hours could work as a compromise.

What To Serve With Lamb Shanks

Enjoy your hearty Lamb Shanks by serving with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and caramelized carrots. Include sautéed spinach and Greek Green Beans. Or you can try creamy Beetroot Risotto and steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.

How To Store Leftover Lamb Shanks

In The Fridge:

Place leftover lamb shanks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. Store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. I always check the seal to make sure it’s tight.

In The Freezer:

You can freeze leftover lamb shanks, but it’s best to consume them within a month. Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. Label them with the date so you don’t forget when they were frozen.

How To Reheat Leftover Lamb Shanks

To reheat your leftover lamb shanks, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps them moist. Or, microwave them covered for quicker results.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Meat And Potato Pie
• Slow Cooker Chinese Chicken Curry
• Slow Cooker Sausage Gravy