Chinese Braised Lamb Shanks with Star Anise
20M
2H and 50M
- Makes 4
- 4 lamb shanks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rock sugar
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper, then brown them on all sides. Remove the shanks and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the star anise and cinnamon stick, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, and rock sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot, and add enough chicken stock to cover them. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
- Once cooked, remove the lamb shanks from the pot and keep them warm. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce.
- Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it thickens slightly.
- Return the lamb shanks to the sauce, coating them well. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Chinese Braised Lamb Shanks with Star Anise: A Flavorful Journey
History
The origins of Chinese Braised Lamb Shanks with Star Anise can be traced back to the rich culinary traditions of Northern China, where lamb is a staple meat. This dish has been enjoyed for centuries, evolving through the dynasties as a testament to the region’s hearty and robust flavors. The use of star anise, a key ingredient, reflects the ancient trade routes that brought this aromatic spice to China, integrating it into the local cuisine. Over time, this dish has become a beloved comfort food, often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, showcasing the depth and complexity of Chinese cooking techniques.
Taste Profile
Chinese Braised Lamb Shanks with Star Anise offer a symphony of flavors that are both bold and harmonious. The tender lamb shanks are infused with the warm, sweet notes of star anise, complemented by the savory depth of soy sauce. The braising process melds these flavors into a rich, aromatic sauce that coats the meat, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The balance of sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of spice makes this dish a standout in Chinese cuisine, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Cultural Significance
Within Chinese cuisine, Chinese Braised Lamb Shanks with Star Anise hold a special place, particularly in the northern regions where lamb is more commonly consumed. This dish is often associated with celebrations and festive occasions, symbolizing warmth and abundance. The use of star anise, a spice with medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine, adds a layer of cultural significance, believed to promote health and well-being. As a dish that brings families together, it embodies the communal spirit of Chinese dining, where food is not just nourishment but a means of connecting and celebrating life’s moments.
