Chef George Pagonis Aussie Lamb Kapama

  • Prep time 20Min
  • Cook time 2Hr, 20Min
  • Technique Pan Fry / Saute, Stir Fry, Sear
  • Meat Lamb
  • Cut Shank
  • Serves 6

As featured by Chef George Pagonis at Metro DC Cooking 2017

Ingredients

  • 6 Australian lamb shanks (about 5 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 3 large white onions, chopped
  • 12 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon allspice, toasted, ground
  • 1 teaspoon clove, toasted, ground
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 12 oz. Orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 parmesan cheese wedge

Chef Note: Top each serving with chopped Italian parsley for freshness and a pop of color. 

Method

To prep:

  1. Preheat oven to 375ºF.

  2. Season lamb shanks on all sides with salt and pepper.

For the shanks:

  1. Heat canola oil in large heavy deep skillet on medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook lamb shanks 10 minutes or until browned on all sides, turning often.

  2. Transfer shanks to roasting pan.

To cook:

  1. Discard all but 2 tablespoons drippings from skillet. Reduce heat to medium; add onions, garlic and spices. Cook 4–6 minutes or until onions are translucent, stirring frequently.

  2. Add wine; stir frequently until liquid is mostly evaporated.

  3. Stir in tomatoes, bay leaves and thyme. Bring mixture to a boil; remove from heat and pour over lamb shanks in roasting pan.

  4. Cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 1½–2 hours or until shanks are tender and meat is done (165ºF).

For the pasta:

  1. Meanwhile, cook pasta as directed on package; drain, toss lightly with olive oil.

  2. Remove shanks from roasting pan; skim sauce of excess fat.

To serve: Spoon sauce over meat before serving with orzo. Sprinkle each serving with freshly grated parmesan cheese.