As featured by Chef George Pagonis at Metro DC Cooking 2017
Chef Note: Top each serving with chopped Italian parsley for freshness and a pop of color.
To prep:
Preheat oven to 375ºF.
Season lamb shanks on all sides with salt and pepper.
For the shanks:
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.
Transfer shanks to roasting pan.
To cook:
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.
Add wine; stir frequently until liquid is mostly evaporated.
Stir in tomatoes, bay leaves and thyme. Bring mixture to a boil; remove from heat and pour over lamb shanks in roasting pan.
Cover pan tightly with foil. Bake 1½–2 hours or until shanks are tender and meat is done (165ºF).
For the pasta:
Meanwhile, cook pasta as directed on package; drain, toss lightly with olive oil.
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.