Slow-Cooker Lamb Shanks

Step 1: Heat half of the oil in a large frying pan.

Step 2: Toss lamb shanks in flour that has been seasoned with salt and pepper; shaking away excess flour. Cook lamb over a high heat until browned all over then transfer shanks to the bowl of a slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the remaining oil to the same pan with the onions, carrots and garlic & cook; stirring the vegetables over medium heat for about 3 minutes or until the onion is just starting to soften then add the tomato paste & cook, still stirring for a further minute.

Step 4: Add the wine to the pan & bring mix to the boil, stir in the beef stock, then the undrained tomatoes, sugar and the bouquet garni. Bring to the boil & pour over the lamb in the slow cooker, making sure the lamb is covered by the liquid.

Step 5: Cover & cook for 6-8 hours on the low setting or until lamb is soft and just falling off the bone.

Step 6: Remove the lamb from the slow cooker and cover to keep warm. Turn the cooker to the high setting; cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly. Remove any fat from the surface and serve the lamb shanks with the sauce over the top.