Braised Italian Lamb Shanks (Oven Or Crock Pot)

FOR THE OVEN METHOD

Step 1: Preheat oven to 325F.

Step 2: Combine flour and seasonings in large plastic bag.

Step 3: Add lamb in batches to flour mixture; shake to coat well.

Step 4: Remove lamb from bag, reserving excess flour mixture.

Step 5: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.

Step 6: Add lamb; cook, until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to roasting pan.

Step 7: In same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp oil over medium low heat.

Step 8: Add onions and garlic; stir occasionally until just tender, about 3 - 5 minutes.

Step 9: In bowl whisk together ketchup, vinegar, reserved flour mixture; stir in tomatoes with juices.

Step 10: Stir into skillet. Bring to boil; cook, stirring occasionally until thickened, about 1 minute.

Step 11: Pour over lamb; cover tightly with foil.

Step 12: Bake for 2 hours or until tender.

Step 13: Transfer lamb to serving platter. Skim and discard fat from pan juices.

Step 14: Serve juices over lamb.

FOR THE CROCK POT METHOD

Step 15: Follow steps 2 - 6.

Step 16: Transfer lamb to crock pot.

Step 17: Follow steps 8 - 12.

Step 18: Pour over lamb. Put lid on crock pot and start on high until it starts to bubble and turn to low and cook for 4 hours or until tender.

Step 19: Skim fat from pan juices.

Step 20: Serve pan juices over lamb.