Slow-roasted Lamb Shank and Barley Soup
This hearty and comforting lamb shank and barley soup is slow-roasted to perfection, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The tender lamb, combined with pearl barley and aromatic vegetables, makes for a satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy dinner. The addition of lemon zest and parsley adds a fresh touch to this classic recipe.

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Ingredients
French-trimmed lamb shanks6lb
Plain flour, to dust
extra virgin olive oil2 1/2tbsp
small eschalots, peeled8
garlic, bruised3clove
carrot, roughly chopped1
celery stalk, roughly chopped1
thyme5sprigs
fresh bay leaves2
white wine3/4cup
beef stock8cups
pearl barley3/4cup
Finely grated lemon zest, to serve
Finely chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves, to serve
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
1193.1kcal (59.66%)
Protein
132.2g (100%)
Carbs
34.2g (12.43%)
Sugars
1.6g (3.14%)
Healthy Fat
35.6g
Unhealthy Fat
19.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Slow-roasted Lamb Shank and Barley Soup
- Step 1
Dust lamb shanks in flour, shake off excess flour, and season all over. Heat oil in a large ovenproof stockpot or saucepan with a lid over high heat. Sear lamb, turning frequently, for 4-5 minutes, until browned all over. Remove from pot and set aside.
- Step 2
Preheat oven to 160°C/140°C fan-forced.
- Step 3
Add whole eschalots, garlic, carrot, celery, and herbs to the pot, drizzling in a little extra oil if needed. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Step 4
Return lamb to the pot, increase heat to high, and add wine, scraping the base of the pan with a spoon. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until evaporated. Add stock, barley, and enough water to cover lamb by 5cm. Bring to the boil, skimming any impurities that rise to the surface. Braise, covered, in the oven for 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, until meat falls off the bone.
- Step 5
Remove pot from oven and transfer lamb to a large heatproof bowl. Set aside to serve the meat on the bone, or when shanks are cool enough to handle, shred meat from bones, discarding bones.
- Step 6
Place pot over high heat and return to the boil. Skim any fat and impurities that rise to the surface. Season to taste and add a little extra stock or water if the soup is too thick. Return meat to soup and stir to combine.
- Step 7
To serve, divide soup among bowls, scatter with lemon zest and parsley, and drizzle with extra oil.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
1193.1kcal (59.66%)
Protein
132.2g (100%)
Carbs
34.2g (12.43%)
Sugars
1.6g (3.14%)
Healthy Fat
35.6g
Unhealthy Fat
19.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a more intense flavor, marinate the lamb shanks overnight with herbs and garlic before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of liquid slightly or add more barley.
Use fresh herbs for the best aroma and taste.
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lamb shanks with beef shanks or pork shanks, but the cooking time may vary.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of pearl barley?
You can substitute pearl barley with farro, quinoa, or rice, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for dusting the lamb and replace pearl barley with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice.
Chef Miška Tolj-Turkić
(@chefmiska)
Chef Miška Tolj-Turkić is a Croatian/Australian dual citizen, born in Western Australia, who's families migrated from Croatia in the 1920s. Originally raised in the lush wine growing district of The Swan Valley in Western Australia, he developed his love of cooking while watching his beloved grandmothers (Baba) working their cuisine magic. After a successful career as one of Australia's leading performers in the musical theatre, he retired from acting in 2012 to concentrate on his chosen new career as a chef. He also holds qualifications in Asian Cusine from TAFE NSW.
...Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia