There’s something magical about the aroma of lamb shanks slow cooking in a rich, minty sauce, filling the house with warmth and anticipation. This recipe for Slow Cooker Mint Lamb Shanks is not just a meal; it’s a family favorite that Scott, the kids, and I cherish. The combination of tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb infused with the bold flavors of mint, honey, ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a dish that feels both hearty and refreshing.
Why This Recipe is Special
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the mint sauce, Fountain Brand is my go-to. As a mint lover, I don’t hold back, often using nearly the whole bottle for an extra punch of flavor. When combined with the sweetness of honey, the warmth of ginger, and the savory depth of soy sauce, the result is a sauce that clings beautifully to the lamb, balancing richness with a fresh zing.
What makes this dish even more special is the lamb itself. Whenever possible, we use lamb sourced directly from family down south. There’s an undeniable difference in taste when the meat is fresh and lovingly raised. It’s a connection to the land and family that adds an extra layer of meaning to every bite.
For the best results, I let the shanks marinate overnight in the sauce. This step allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, making it even more succulent after a long, slow cook.
The Perfect Comfort Food
After eight hours on low in the slow cooker, the lamb is so tender it almost melts as you lift it from the pot. The leftover juices are perfect for a quick and delicious gravy, just add a touch of gravy powder to thicken it up. Served alongside roasted or steamed vegetables, this dish always feels like a celebration. It’s one of those meals where the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day. But let’s be honest, it’s usually all gone in one sitting.
Slow Cooker Mint Lamb Shanks Recipe
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup Thick Mint Sauce (I use Fountain Brand Sauce)
- ¼ cup Liquid Honey
- 2 tablespoons Crushed Ginger
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: Put all ingredients into the slow cooker and mix well. (For all you mint lovers like me, feel free to use most of the mint sauce from the bottle!)
- Add the Lamb Shanks: Place 4 meaty lamb shanks into the slow cooker and toss them around in the sauce until well coated.
- Marinate (Optional): If you have time, place the slow cooker pot in the fridge overnight to let the flavors develop further. If you’re short on time, you can start cooking right away.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for about 8 hours. The lamb will be incredibly tender and infused with flavor.
- Make the Gravy: Use the leftover juices in the slow cooker for gravy. Simply add a touch of gravy powder and stir until thickened.
- Serve: Plate the lamb shanks with roasted or steamed vegetables. Enjoy the flavors of this hearty and comforting dish!
Final Thoughts
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition, a family connection, and a reminder of the simple joys of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a bit of comfort, these Slow Cooker Mint Lamb Shanks will surely hit the spot. Let me know if you try it out, I’d love to hear how it goes!
Mum to 5 wonderful crazy kids. Our family loves being outdoors and exploring and visiting new places, spending quality time together from watching movies, playing games or baking in the kitchen 🙂
