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Pomegranate-Balsamic Glazed Garlic and Wild Thyme-Braised Lamb Shoulder with Velvety Pan Gravy

Braised Lamb Shoulder with Pomegranate and Thyme

This tender braised lamb shoulder cooked in a rich pomegranate and balsamic sauce is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 4-5 lb Lamb shoulder, bone-in
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 large Onion, diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Pomegranate juice
  • 1/2 cup Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh wild thyme leaves (or dried thyme) (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 cups Low-sodium chicken or beef broth
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper. Sear the lamb on all sides until it is browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the lamb shoulder to the pot, nestling it into the sauce. Add the broth, ensuring the lamb is mostly submerged.
  6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the lamb for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
  7. Once the lamb is done, remove it from the oven and transfer the lamb to a cutting board. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
  8. Meanwhile, place the pot with the braising liquid over medium heat on the stove. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. To serve, slice the lamb shoulder and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle the velvety pan gravy over the top and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can marinate the lamb shoulder overnight in the pomegranate juice and thyme.