CookTeaser

A CookTale

I’ve been on a three month hiatus! Rather a three month sabbatical! But last evening, Cathie demanded that we not “waste” the gorgeous Lamb Shanks from the Fleisher butcher shop in Kingston. Cathie got me off my ass, and drove me to the stove. One more reason to adore the lady! I readily admit, it
felt good to once again be motivated to bring out the Nikon and enjoy the evening’s dinner.

INGREDIENTS2 TB of EVOO (more if needed)
2 Large Lamb Shanks (about 1LB each)
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper
1 Can of Cannellini Beans
3 Large white Turnips (about 1-1/2 lbs), peeled, halved & sliced to half circles
3 Leeks (chopped) optional
4 large Garlic Cloves (sliced)
Lemon peel from one lemon
2 TB of fresh Rosemary leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
2 cups of Dry Vermouth or Dry White Wine
3 cups Veal or Chicken Stock
2 oz of Veal Demi Glace* (optional)
* available by “More Than Gourmet” on-line from Amazon

METHOD

1. Heat 2 TB of EVOO on medium-high in a 4-quart stovetop casserole. Season the Lamb Shanks liberally with Salt & Pepper, add to the casserole & sear to a deep color, about 15 minutes Remove to a platter. Add the prepared Turnips, brown lightly until beginning to tenderize. Remove to a bowl.

2. Reduce the heat to low. Add the chopped Leeks & sliced Garlic, sauté until softened. Stir in the Lemon peel, Rosemary & the Wine. Return the Lamb Shanks to the casserole, cover & simmer on low heat for 1 hour.

3. While meat cooks, add the canned Beans & their broth to a saucepan, bring to a simmer, cover & cook for 10 minutes on low. Turn off the heat & set aside.

4. After 1 hour, the Lamb should begin to tenderize. Remove them to a platter, leaving all liquid in the casserole. Drain the Beans & add to the casserole. along with the Turnips, the 1- 1/2 cups of stock & the (optional) Demi Glace. Season with Salt & Pepper. Bring to a simmer. Tuck in the Lamb, cover & cook on low 30 to 45 minutes, until all the ingredients in the casserole are very tender.

5. Transfer to plates, garnished with Rosemary branches & an additional spoonful of the sauce & serve.