Emilie Meyer
Lamb shanks are a popular dish, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. One method that produces tender, flavourful meat with a crispy outer crust in a short amount of time is by using an air fryer. This guide will cover the entire process, from selecting the perfect lamb shanks to achieving the ideal doneness, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality lamb shanks in the comfort of your own home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lamb Shank Weight | 1 1/2 to 2 pounds each |
| Marinade | Olive oil, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, onion powder, cayenne, mustard powder, cumin |
| Chicken Stock | Add after the first 15-20 minutes of cooking |
| Wine | Red or white wine can be added to the chicken stock |
| Cooking Time | 30-50 minutes |
| Internal Temperature | 160-170°F |
| Air Fryer Temperature | 375-390°F |
| Air Fryer Setting | 150°C |
| Preheat Time | 3-5 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for lamb shanks in an air fryer depend on the level of doneness you want to achieve. For a well-done lamb shank, cook for 40–45 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C). If you prefer your lamb medium-rare, cook for 25–30 minutes.
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. It is important to preheat your air fryer to create a crispy exterior. Then, rub the lamb shanks with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest. Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper, ensuring all sides are coated.
Place the lamb shanks in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one to ensure proper air circulation and an even cook. For the first stage of the cooking process, cook the lamb shanks for 15–20 minutes at 390°F (200°C). Check the internal temperature before removing the lamb shanks; it should be 160°F.
For the second stage, turn the lamb shanks halfway through cooking. Reduce the temperature of the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and add chicken stock. Cook for another 20 minutes, or until the meat easily comes away from the bone. If the lamb is still tough, continue cooking at the lower temperature until the desired texture is achieved.
Once the lamb shanks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. During this time, the meat will continue to cook slightly from residual heat, and the juices will redistribute throughout, ensuring a juicy and flavorful dish.
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Seasoning and marinade
Seasoning and marinating lamb shanks is a great way to enhance their flavour. While marinating is not necessary, it can add depth to the dish. A simple marinade can be made with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest. For maximum flavour, allow the lamb shanks to marinate in the fridge overnight. Before cooking, season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs such as mint, coriander, or thyme, or spices like onion powder, cayenne, mustard powder, paprika, or cumin.
If you want to stick to a more classic flavour profile, Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, oregano, and garlic are a perfect complement to the rich taste of lamb. You can also add smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth. The addition of chicken stock will also keep the meat moist and succulent during cooking. For a Middle Eastern twist, you can use seasonings like Za'atar, Baharat, or Aleppo Pepper.
When rubbing in the seasonings, press them firmly into the meat, making sure to cover all sides, including the ends. If the seasonings aren't sticking, add a little more olive oil to those areas. Don't be shy with the seasonings—the lamb shanks are large pieces of meat, and you want the flavours to really infuse.
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Choosing the lamb shanks
Lamb shanks are one of the most flavourful parts of the lamb, but they are also one of the toughest cuts of meat. They come from the lower leg of lambs, specifically the shin, which includes the foresaddle and hindsaddle. Lamb shanks are an inexpensive cut of meat, and they are a great choice if you are looking for a lot of meat wrapped around a bone.
When choosing lamb shanks, you will want to select ones that have a good amount of meat on them. The foreshank is the front and is smaller, while the back leg is meatier. Both can give a good cut of lamb shank, so it is really a matter of personal preference. You will also want to consider how many people you are serving, as you will need to get more lamb shanks if you are feeding more people.
Lamb shanks are a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways, including in the oven, on the stove, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot. They are a great choice for an air fryer because the unique cooking method, combined with the use of chicken stock, creates incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone. The air fryer also cuts down on the cooking time, so you can have delicious, tender lamb shanks in a fraction of the time it would take to cook them in the oven.
When cooking lamb shanks in an air fryer, it is important to note that you should not crowd the air fryer basket, as this will affect the cooking. Make sure to leave plenty of room around the shanks to let the air circulate. Additionally, since all air fryers are slightly different, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lamb shanks before removing them. The internal temperature should be 160 degrees F.
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How to serve
When it comes to serving your lamb shanks, there are several side dishes that can complement the rich taste of the lamb. Lamb shanks are large pieces of meat, so you may want to serve them with a variety of side dishes to ensure your guests are satisfied.
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish to serve with lamb shanks, and you can add gravy for extra flavour. If you want a healthier option, you can try mashed cauliflower instead. Roast vegetables such as bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, onions, and sweet potatoes also make a great side dish. You can cook these in the oven or in the air fryer. For an extra special touch, try adding some wine to the chicken stock when making gravy. Steak fries or Tater Tots are also delicious options. If you have more time, cauliflower cheese or creamed spinach are excellent choices that are sure to impress.
Don't forget to let the lamb shanks rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the meat to continue cooking slightly and ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.
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What to cook it in
When it comes to cooking lamb shanks in an air fryer, there are a few key steps and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to select the right cut of meat. Lamb shanks are the meaty hind leg of a lamb, usually cut into one or two pieces. Aim for shanks that are well-trimmed, with a deep red colour and a good distribution of fat. The ideal weight for even cooking is around 1 ½ to 2 pounds each.
Before cooking, it is essential to prepare the lamb shanks properly. Start by rinsing the shanks under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures the removal of any unwanted debris and excess moisture. While marinating is optional, it can significantly enhance the flavour. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest can be used.
The air fryer's unique cooking method, combined with the use of chicken stock, creates incredibly tender meat. The two-stage cooking process ensures the lamb stays moist and becomes tender without turning dry or mushy. Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Then, rub the lamb shanks with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper, along with other seasonings like rosemary, garlic, and paprika. Place the shanks into the air fryer and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes.
For the second stage, lower the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and add the chicken stock. Cook for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, turning the lamb shanks halfway through. The total cooking time will depend on your desired doneness, with medium-rare lamb shanks taking around 25 to 30 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (77°C) for well-done lamb shanks.
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Frequently asked questions
First, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Then, rub the lamb shanks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, rosemary, oregano, and garlic. Place the lamb shanks into the air fryer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Next, turn the air fryer down to 150°C (300°F) and add chicken stock. Cook for another hour, turning the lamb shanks halfway through.
To get tender lamb shanks, cook the lamb for 40 to 50 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C). The chicken stock is essential to creating steam and ensuring the meat is tender and doesn't dry out.
Mashed potatoes, roast vegetables (bell peppers, potatoes, carrots, onions), and gravy are classic side dishes that work well with lamb shanks. For a healthier option, try mashed cauliflower or roast cauliflower with cheese.
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