Braised Lamb Shanks with Butternut Squash Puree

Ingredients and Weight:

• Lamb Shanks: 8 pieces (about 2 pounds)
• Butternut Squash: 2 medium (about 2 pounds)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh Rosemary: 2 sprigs
• Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and chopped
• Celery Stalks: 2, chopped
• Onion: 1, chopped
• Chicken Stock: 3 cups
• Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 3-4 hours (low and slow cooking is key)

Difficulty Level:

Level 4 (requires patience for slow cooking)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the cooking oil in a heavy oven-safe dish or pot.
4. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides in the hot oil.
5. Remove excess oil and add fresh rosemary, chopped carrots, celery, and onions.
6. Pour chicken stock over the lamb shanks and cover with a lid or foil.
7. Place in the preheated oven and cook for 3-4 hours until the lamb is tender.
8. While the lamb is cooking, peel and cube the butternut squash.
9. Boil the butternut squash cubes until tender, then blend to a puree.
10. Serve the braised lamb shanks with the butternut squash puree on the side.

Nutritional Information:

(Based on average values, may vary depending on specific ingredients used)

• Calories: Approx. 600 per serving (lamb), 150 per serving (puree)
• Fat: Moderate (mostly from lamb)
• Carbohydrates: From the butternut squash puree
• Protein: High (from lamb)
• Fiber: From vegetables and squash

Dish Characteristics:

• Lamb shanks are rich in flavor and texture, providing a hearty meal.
• The butternut squash puree offers a creamy, rich contrast to the lamb, adding a touch of elegance to the dish.
• Slow-cooked, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.

User Comments:

1. "The lamb shanks were cooked to perfection, so tender and juicy."
2. "The butternut squash puree was a great pairing, added a nice balance to the dish."
3. "This dish was a bit time-consuming, but well worth the wait."
4. "The flavor combinations were outstanding, definitely a dish to make for special occasions."
5. "A great dish for colder weather, very comforting."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Lamb shanks can be quite fatty, so some trimming may be necessary for healthier options.
• Be sure to brown the lamb shanks well before adding any other ingredients to ensure a rich flavor.
• Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. Some may prefer more salt or pepper.