Air-Fried Lamb Shanks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Lamb shanks are a popular dish, but they can take a long time to cook in a traditional oven. Luckily, you can cook them in an air fryer! This method is faster, less messy, and still gives the meat a crispy outer crust. You can cook frozen or defrosted lamb shanks in an air fryer, and there are various ways to season them. The cooking time will depend on the size of your lamb shanks and your air fryer, but on average, it takes 15-20 minutes to cook defrosted lamb shanks and 30-40 minutes to cook frozen ones.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for lamb shanks in an air fryer depend on whether you are cooking from frozen or not. If you are cooking from frozen, you don't need to preheat your air fryer. Simply rub olive oil over the lamb shanks, season them, and cook at 390°F for 30 to 40 minutes.

If you are not cooking from frozen, start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F. Then, rub the lamb chops with olive oil and season them with salt and black pepper. Place the lamb shanks into the air fryer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F when they are done. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature before removing them.

Note that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your lamb shanks and the size of your air fryer. If you are using a different-sized air fryer, you may need to adjust the recipe's quantities and timings.

Seasoning

A simple yet effective seasoning mix for lamb shanks is olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, and oregano. This combination of Mediterranean herbs and spices complements the rich taste of lamb. When applying the seasoning, ensure the lamb shanks are well-coated, and press the seasonings firmly into the meat. This helps the flavours infuse into the lamb as it cooks.

For an extra flavour boost, you can add smoked paprika, which adds depth to the dish. Additionally, lemon zest can be used to bring a citrusy freshness to the seasoning. Other herbs and spices that can be used include mint, coriander, thyme, onion powder, cayenne, mustard powder, and cumin.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your perfect flavour profile for lamb shanks. The air fryer's intense heat will seal in these flavours, resulting in a mouth-watering dish.

Cooking from frozen

Yes, you can cook frozen lamb shanks in an air fryer. This method of cooking lamb shanks is not only easy but also significantly cuts down the cooking time.

To cook frozen lamb shanks in an air fryer, start by placing the frozen lamb shanks into the air fryer. Since you are cooking from frozen, you don't need to preheat the air fryer. Next, rub olive oil over the lamb shanks and season them with salt, black pepper, garlic, rosemary, and oregano. You can also add other herbs and spices like mint, coriander, thyme, onion powder, cayenne, mustard powder, or cumin. Make sure to cover all sides of the lamb shanks with the seasonings and press them firmly into the meat.

Once the lamb shanks are seasoned, set the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 30 to 40 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket and leave enough room for air to circulate around the lamb shanks. After cooking, check the internal temperature of the lamb shanks with a meat thermometer; it should be 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can serve lamb shanks with a variety of side dishes. Mashed potatoes and gravy are a classic and popular choice. If you want a healthier option, you can try mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes. Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, and onions also go well with lamb shanks. You can cook these side dishes in the air fryer or a traditional oven.

Side dishes

Lamb shanks cooked in an air fryer are tender, succulent, and loaded with flavor. The side dishes you choose can complement and enhance this delicious main course. Here are some mouth-watering options to consider:

Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with lamb shanks. For an indulgent and hearty meal, serve the lamb shanks over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes and smother them with rich, savory gravy. This combination is a favorite for a reason!

Roast Vegetables

Roasted bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, and onions make a delicious and colorful side dish. You can cook these vegetables in a traditional oven or even in your air fryer! This option adds a healthy and flavorful dimension to your meal.

Cauliflower

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower is an excellent option. You can also try cauliflower cheese, a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that will impress your taste buds.

Spinach

Creamed spinach is another fantastic choice to accompany your lamb shanks. It adds a touch of green to your plate and offers a creamy, savory flavor that complements the richness of the lamb.

Couscous

Couscous is a versatile and tasty option that works well with lamb shanks. It can be prepared in various ways, from simple and savory to more elaborate recipes with herbs, spices, and vegetables.

Wine-Braised Lamb Shanks

For a unique twist, try substituting some of the olive oil in your marinade with red wine. This variation will give your lamb shanks a deeper, more robust flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.

Remember, when selecting your lamb shanks, look for quality. Choose shanks that are well-trimmed, with a deep red color and a good distribution of fat. You can also experiment with different marinades and seasonings to add extra flavor to your dish. Enjoy experimenting with these side dishes and creating a memorable dining experience!

Leftovers

Lamb shanks cooked in an air fryer can be used in a variety of dishes if you have leftovers. The tender leftover meat can be used in pizzas, pies, sandwiches, and pizza scrolls.

The cooking time for lamb shanks in an air fryer varies depending on the desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook for 25-30 minutes, for medium cook for 35-40 minutes, and for well-done, cook for 40-45 minutes. If you are cooking from frozen, the cooking time is 30 to 40 minutes. The internal temperature of the lamb shanks should be 160 degrees F when done.

The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the lamb shanks. The meat should easily come away from the bone. If it doesn't, you may need to cook it for a little longer. It is recommended to let the lamb shanks rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

You can also experiment with the seasonings and herbs used to marinate the lamb shanks. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest can be used. You can also season the lamb shanks with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and rosemary.

Frequently asked questions