Slow Cooker Candied Lamb Shoulder with Pearl Onions and Bacon Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the lamb shoulder in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil before placing it in the slow cooker. This extra step adds a layer of Maillard reaction, which enhances the color and complexity of the final sauce. While not strictly necessary, it provides a noticeable boost to the overall richness of the dish if you have the extra time.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lamb once it is cooked and whisk a small amount of cornstarch slurry into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker basin.

Turn the heat to high for 10 to 15 minutes with the lid off to allow the sauce to thicken into a rich, glossy gravy. This technique is perfect if you are planning to serve the lamb over mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Variations

• Herbed Lamb Variation: Add two sprigs of fresh rosemary and three sprigs of fresh thyme during the cooking process. These woody herbs infuse the lamb with an earthy aroma that complements the richness of the veal and beef stock perfectly.
• Garlic-Infused Lamb: Tuck 4 to 6 whole, peeled garlic cloves under the lamb before adding the liquid. The garlic softens during the long cooking time, providing a mellow, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the pearl onions.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat until steaming hot throughout.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the meat is completely cooled within 2 hours of cooking before placing it in the fridge to maintain safety and quality. When storing, keep the lamb in some of the cooking liquid to prevent it from drying out, which also helps preserve the flavor and texture of the meat for future meals.

This dish is excellent for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare the entire recipe a day in advance, allow it to cool, and then store it in the fridge.

Reheat the lamb gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of beef broth to restore moisture before serving, which often makes the meat even more tender.

Serving ideas

Serve the lamb shoulder on a warmed platter, pulling the meat into large, succulent chunks. Arrange the caramelized pearl onions and crispy bacon lardons around the meat, then drizzle the glossy, reduced glaze generously over everything.

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

When presenting the meal, ensure the lamb is steaming hot. The contrast between the tender meat and the slightly sweet, glazed onions makes for a visually appealing and satisfying main course.

Consider providing a small side of crusty artisan bread to soak up the remaining flavorful sauce, as it is often the best part of the dish, capturing all the savory essence of the slow-cooked lamb.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Candied Lamb Shoulder with Pearl Onions and Bacon

Prep 10 minCook 8 hRest 10 minTotal 8 h 20 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb lamb shoulder, rolled
• 1 cup peeled pearl onions
• 4 oz bacon lardons
• 2 tbsp veal stock powder
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions

1. Place the rolled lamb shoulder into the basin of the slow cooker. Scatter the peeled pearl onions and bacon lardons evenly around the lamb to ensure they distribute flavor throughout the cooking process.
2. Sprinkle the veal stock powder over the meat and vegetables. Pour the beef broth carefully into the slow cooker, avoiding splashing the heating element, to create the base for the braising liquid.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the lamb reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the lamb, let it rest for 10 minutes, and serve with the reduced glaze and caramelized onions.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

32.5 g

Carbohydrates

8.2 g

Fat

31 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

780 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.