07 - Knuckle Pieces 500g

Lamb knuckle pieces, also known as lamb shanks or lamb knuckle joints, are flavourful and tender cuts of meat that come from the lower part of the lamb's legs, just above the ankle joint. Like lamb stewing pieces, lamb knuckle pieces are well-suited for slow-cooking methods, which helps to break down the tough connective tissues and create succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat.

Here's how to use and cook lamb knuckle pieces:

1. Preparation: As with lamb stewing pieces, you can season the lamb knuckles with salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs or spices. Marinating them for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavour even further.

2. Browning the Meat: To develop rich flavours in the final dish, you can start by browning the lamb knuckles. Heat some oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb knuckles on all sides until they are nicely caramelized. This step adds depth to the stew and enhances the visual appeal of the finished dish.

3. Adding Aromatics and Vegetables: Once the lamb knuckles are browned, you can add aromatic vegetables such as onions, garlic, and carrots, along with other vegetables of your choice. This adds complexity to the flavours and complements the lamb's taste.

4. Liquid and Cooking: Pour in enough liquid to cover the lamb knuckles and vegetables. You can use beef or lamb broth, red wine, or a combination of both to create a flavourful braising liquid. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer slowly. The long, slow cooking process will make the lamb incredibly tender and allow the flavours to meld together.

5. Cooking Time: Lamb knuckle pieces generally require a longer cooking time compared to lamb stewing pieces due to their size and connective tissues. It can take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours or more of simmering for the meat to become fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone.

6. Seasoning and Finishing: As the lamb knuckles simmer, taste the stew occasionally and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed to suit your taste.

7. Serving: Once the lamb knuckles are tender and the stew has developed a rich flavour, it's ready to be served. Garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or mint to add a burst of freshness.

Lamb knuckle pieces are excellent for creating hearty and comforting dishes, perfect for colder months or special occasions. They pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.