Created by ForeverMama on July 5, 2019
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350-degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Rub the lamb shanks with the oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat a large, oven-proof braising pan over high heat. Place the lamb shanks in the pan and cook, turning them with tongs, until brown on all sides, about 10 - 12 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and remove the lamb shanks to a plate.
Step 3: Add the onion, cumin, saffron (if using), cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, ginger, and the garlic to the pan and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes to release their flavors.
Step 4: Place the lamb shanks back in the pan and surround them with the dried fruit. Add the harissa, water, and orange juice and stir the liquids to combine them evenly.
Step 5: Bring to a boil, cover the pan with a lid or with aluminum foil, and carefully place it in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the lamb until very tender, about 2 hours. (Check after 1 hour to verify that the lamb is at least three-quarters covered with liquid; if not, add water.)
Step 7: Carefully remove the pan from the oven and serve with couscous on the side.