Slow Cooker Provençal Pieds et Paquets with Rich White Wine Sauce Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can briefly brown the lamb parcels in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional.

If you choose to do this, ensure the pan is hot and that you deglaze it with a splash of the white wine to capture all the flavorful browned bits. This added step can provide a richer color and a more complex depth to the final sauce.

If the sauce appears too thin at the end of the cooking time, you can carefully remove the lamb and set it aside, then turn the slow cooker to the high setting or transfer the liquid to a saucepan on the stovetop.

Simmer the sauce until it reaches your desired thickness. This adjustment ensures that the final presentation is as impressive as the flavor, with a sauce that clings beautifully to the meat.

Variations

• Spicy Provençal: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic to introduce a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the lamb and bacon.
• Herb-Forward: Incorporate a handful of fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs instead of a standard bouquet garni for a more intense, woodsy herbal aroma in the final sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the slow cooker until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Allow the leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before transferring them to airtight containers. Properly stored, the dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, ensure the meat is fully covered by the sauce to prevent it from drying out, and place the containers in the coldest part of the refrigerator.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Simply follow the cooking instructions, allow the dish to cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker until the meat is heated through, adding a small splash of water or wine if the sauce has become too thick during refrigeration.

Serving ideas

Pieds et Paquets is traditionally served in shallow bowls to showcase the rich sauce. It pairs exceptionally well with crusty French bread, which is essential for mopping up the flavorful juices. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside boiled potatoes or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lamb and the bacon.

Consider serving a glass of the same dry white wine used in the recipe to complement the flavors of the dish. The warmth of the meal makes it a perfect choice for cooler evenings or gatherings where comfort and traditional flavors are prioritized.

Arrange the lamb parcels and pieces of trotter carefully on each plate, ensuring every serving receives an ample portion of the glossy, aromatic sauce.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Provençal Pieds et Paquets with Rich White Wine Sauce

Prep 15 minCook 8 hRest 5 minTotal 8 h 20 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces lamb parcels
• 2 pieces lamb trotters
• 4 oz bacon lardons
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 piece bouquet garni
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup dry white wine

Instructions

1. Place the lamb parcels and lamb trotters at the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure they are arranged in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the long braising process.
2. Scatter the bacon lardons over the lamb. Add the minced garlic and nestle the bouquet garni into the center of the mixture to infuse the liquid as it heats.
3. Combine the crushed tomatoes and white wine in a measuring cup, then pour the mixture over the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until the lamb reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.

Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

30 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

600 mg

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