Cabernet-Braised Lamb Shoulder

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small bowl, mix the fennel seed with 2 tablespoons of the oil and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the lamb .

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy casserole or Dutch oven. Add the lamb shoulder and brown it well over moderately high heat , about 20 minutes. Transfer the lamb to a large plate. Wipe out the casserole .

Add 1 tablespoon of oil back into casserole and brown apples, garlic, shallots, carrot, & celery .

Return the lamb to the casserole. Add the wine, chicken stock, bay leaves and rosemary sprigs and bring to a boil. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and transfer the casserole to the oven. Braise the lamb for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, turning the meat occasionally , until tender.

Transfer the lamb to a large platter and cover with foil. Discard the vegetables, rosemary & bay leaves sprigs. Simmer the braising liquid until reduced to 1 1/2 cups, about 50 minutes.

Remove the strings from the roast. Slice the lamb , transfer to plates or a platter and spoon the sauce on top.