Braised Lamb Ribs
Ingredients (Serves 4)For the Lamb Ribs:
2 lbs (900g) lamb ribs, cut into individual ribs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup red wine (or beef broth)
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season and Sear the Lamb Ribs:
Pat the lamb ribs dry with paper towels and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the lamb ribs in batches and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Braising Base:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic, rosemary, and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring to combine.
Pour in the red wine (or beef broth) and balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Braise the Ribs:Return the lamb ribs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Add the beef broth, ensuring the ribs are mostly submerged.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
Braise for 2-2.5 hours, or until the lamb ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the lid or foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize the top of the ribs.
Serve the lamb ribs hot, spooning the braising liquid over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the ribs after braising and simmer the liquid on the stovetop until reduced, then pour over the ribs.
Enjoy your Braised Lamb Ribs!