Slow cooker lamb shanks are the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent without being fussy. This aromatic, peach-kissed version is surprisingly easy—yet impressive enough for guests. With fragrant spices, floral undertones, and meat so tender it slips off the bone, this recipe might just win over even the lamb skeptics.
My Story
I didn’t grow up eating lamb—and the first time I tried it, I wasn’t impressed. But over time, I’ve learned the secret to great lamb isn’t just the cut... it’s how you cook it. My early attempts weren’t exactly memorable, but after years of trial and error, I finally nailed a dilled lamb shank dish that made me a believer. Since then, we’ve had several wins—especially with slow-cooked recipes like this one.
My daughter-in-law is a lamb lover, so when we lived nearby, we’d invite their family over whenever lamb shanks were on the menu. Even their little boys were obsessed! They’d polish off their own whole shanks and then eye their mom’s plate like tiny carnivores on a mission. She wasn’t sharing.
Persian cooking is often an all-day affair, but my husband and I love recreating those rich flavors in a fraction of the time. He’s managed to cut the prep time for traditional Persian rice with tahdig (crunchy rice on the bottom of the pot) down to an hour, and we've adapted other dishes for the Instant Pot. This slow cooker lamb shanks recipe is our latest shortcut to bold, complex flavor—made easy in the slow cooker so you can start it in the morning and come home to a house that smells amazing.
Spice Spotlight: Persian Rose
This dish gets its signature flavor from my Persian Rose spice blend—a warm, exotic mix of cardamom, cinnamon, coriander, rose petals, and pomegranate. Together, these spices don’t just taste amazing—they support your health, too.
- Cardamom helps support digestion and may ease bloating or gas. It's also rich in antioxidants that support metabolic and cellular health.
- Cinnamon has natural blood sugar–balancing effects and adds warmth and depth to both sweet and savory dishes.
- Coriander (from the cilantro seed) contains compounds that may aid in blood sugar regulation and reduce oxidative stress.
- Rose petals lend a delicate floral note and have been traditionally used to soothe inflammation and calm the nervous system./li>
- Pomegranate is packed with polyphenols that support cardiovascular health and reduce oxidative stress.
Together, they create a sweet-savory-fragrant combo that enhances the lamb’s richness while balancing the juicy brightness of the peaches and the tart depth of the pomegranate molasses. Persian Rose transforms this dish into something truly memorable—and healing.
Learn more or shop the blend here
Health Benefits of Slow Cooker Lamb Shank Ingredients
Let’s break down the functional nutrition perks of this dish:
- Lamb – A rich source of heme iron, B12, and zinc. Its CLA content (conjugated linoleic acid) may have anti-inflammatory effects, especially when pasture-raised.
- Peaches – High in antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols, with natural sweetness and fiber to support blood sugar balance.
- Pomegranate Molasses – Adds bold, tangy depth while offering heart-healthy polyphenols and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Turmeric – Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially when combined with black pepper (which enhances curcumin absorption).
- Onions – Prebiotic-rich and full of flavonoids, which support gut and immune health.
- Ghee – A clarified butter high in butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut lining integrity. Also rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Bonus: If you’re trying to make cleaner meat choices when eating out, lamb is often a great option. Compared to conventional beef or chicken, lamb is more likely to be pasture-raised and less likely to be pumped full of additives.
Further, we’ve been blessed with a tree full of Red Haven peaches—juicy, sun-ripened, and practically begging to be part of dinner or dessert. Thus, you may see a few more peach recipes popping up before summer’s over!
What Is Pomegranate Molasses?
Pomegranate molasses is a thick, syrupy reduction of pomegranate juice. Unlike sugary syrups, it’s intensely tart with a touch of sweetness—think balsamic glaze, but fruitier. It’s a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens, used to balance richness, add acidity, or brighten marinades and dressings.
Ways to Use Pomegranate Molasses:
- Whisk into vinaigrette or drizzle over roasted vegetables
- Stir into yogurt or hummus for tangy depth
- Glaze lamb, chicken, or even salmon
- Use as a finishing drizzle over grain bowls, grilled peaches, or lentils
You’ll often find it in international or Middle Eastern grocery stores, or you can purchase it on Amazon here. Be sure to buy an unsweetened one. Alternatively, you can make your own by reducing pure pomegranate juice.
How-To: Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks Are Easy to Make
Despite its gourmet flair, this recipe is incredibly simple. Here’s what you’ll be doing:
- Mix a quick spice rub and coat the lamb.
- Sear for flavor. Browning the lamb adds depth you don’t want to skip.
- Blend a sauce with fresh peaches, Persian Rose, and pomegranate molasses.
- Layer it in your slow cooker, turn it on, and walk away!
- Serve the tender lamb shanks over a bed of rice, garnished with parsley, pomegranate arils, and/or a dollop of Greek, goat, or coconut yogurt as desired.
It’s a one-pot dish that smells heavenly and tastes like something you'd order at a high-end restaurant. It pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, cauliflower rice, a tomato and cucumber salad, or a quick quinoa tabbouleh (just swap quinoa for couscous to keep it gluten-free).
Leftovers and Storage
If you have leftovers, remove the meat from the bone and refrigerate in an airtight container along with some of the cooking liquid for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm the lamb and sauce on the stove-top or in the microwave. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Repurpose leftover lamb in:
- A tomato-based stew or soup.
- Mixed with fava beans and a squeeze of lemon.
- Tossed with rice, lemon, and herbs for a fresh rice bowl.
Substitutions & Variations
Need to work with what you have? This dish is flexible.
- Meat swaps: Boneless lamb shoulder or stew meat works, though shanks deliver the best presentation and texture. Bone-in chicken thighs also pair well with Persian Rose and peaches.
- Peaches: Fresh is best but thawed frozen peaches or unsweetened canned peaches will do in a pinch. You don’t need to drain the peaches.
- Spices: No Persian Rose on hand? Use advieh or a combination of cinnamon, cardamom, coriander, and a pinch of nutmeg to loosely mimic the blend.
- Ghee alternatives: Avocado oil or beef tallow are heat-stable and suitable. Avoid butter (low smoke point) or olive oil (too delicate for searing).
Why Ghee Works Best for Searing Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks
Ghee is traditionally used in Persian and Indian cooking. It adds a subtle nutty, rich undertone that complements both lamb and the warm spices in Persian Rose. Ghee can handle high heat (~450°F) without burning, making it ideal for a good sear.
Want to make your own? Here’s my easy step-by-step guide to making ghee at home.
The Bigger Picture: Eating with Intention
This dish is more than just delicious—it’s a great example of how real, whole-food ingredients can deliver incredible flavor and nutrition without relying on ultra-processed shortcuts. The peaches and spices add antioxidant-rich complexity, while the lamb offers satisfying protein and healthy fats.
Meals like this highlight the power of simple, intentional cooking—where every ingredient contributes to both taste and nourishment. It’s a reminder that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to be real.
Want More Recipes Like This?
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Now Let’s Cook!
Here’s the full recipe for Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks with Peaches & Persian Rose—complete with directions, ingredient notes, and optional garnishes to make it your own…
