Welcome to another edition of Robert’s London explorations! Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey through London's heart, with Borough Market taking center stage in our gastronomic adventure.
A Serene City Morning
London's streets, occasionally quiet and reflective, offer a unique backdrop for the early riser. The beauty of the city, especially around the London Bridge area, is a testament to its timeless allure.
Breakfast of Champions
The day beckoned with a delightful morning surprise: a duck egg cradled in a brioche basket, complemented by the luxurious flavor of comte cheese. A recipe set to redefine your breakfast experience!
Borough Market: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Journeying onwards, we ventured into the iconic Borough Market. Renowned as one of London’s premium food destinations, the market is a haven for fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, providing the perfect palette for our evening feast.
The Art of Brewing
What's a London day without indulging in the city’s renowned coffee culture? At Gentleman Baristas Coffee, we were treated to an aromatic and flavorsome brew, reflecting London's passionate coffee scene.
Elevating the Burger Experience
Navigating through the culinary lanes, we were introduced to a reinvention of the classic burger: the Duck Confit Burger. A celebration of textures and tastes, this burger is every gourmet enthusiast's dream.
Dive into Delightful Recipes: Snowflakes and Schnapps
The 'Snowflakes and Schnapps' recipe book beckoned next, opening doors to a range of comforting and delightful dishes. A gem in the culinary literature realm, this book is every food lover’s essential guide.
The Culinary Climax: Lamb Shanks & Mashed Potatoes
Our culinary adventure peaked with the creation of a lavish home dish: Lamb Shanks bathed in a sumptuous Red Wine Sauce, paired with a side of creamy, heavenly mashed potatoes. A meal that echoes the very essence of gourmet comfort.
Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce
Ingredients:
4 lamb shanks
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
2 cups beef or chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 rosemary sprigs
3 thyme sprigs
2 bay leaves
Instructions:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Brown the Lamb: Season the lamb shanks generously with salt and pepper. In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shanks and brown them on all sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Wine & Broth: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Reduce the wine by half, which should take about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and then add the broth.
Return the Lamb: Place the lamb shanks back into the pot. Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
Braise: Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Let the lamb shanks braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the herbs and adjust the seasoning of the sauce if necessary. Serve the lamb shanks with the red wine sauce drizzled over the top.
Serving suggestion: Pair with the creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate dining experience.
The Final Presentation
Our day wrapped up with an exquisite plating of Lamb Shanks, the silkiest mashed potatoes, and bright peas – a delightful combination that speaks to the soul of every food lover.
Join Our Ongoing Adventures!
We trust you enjoyed this gastronomic journey through London. Do return for more culinary stories, recipes, and London escapades. Share your thoughts and experiences, and let's keep the culinary conversations alive!
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