Spring Florals & slow cooked Lamb Shanks
Spring is a time of renewal, where fresh flavours and soft, natural textures come together to create a sense of effortless elegance. From the kitchen to the table, it’s a season of slower moments—gathering around beautifully prepared food and surrounding yourself with light, organic details inspired by nature.
In this setting, delicate spring florals set the tone with their airy, relaxed charm, styled with rustic elements like twigs, hay, and decorative eggs for a subtle nod to Easter. Paired with this is a comforting yet refined dish of slow-braised lamb shanks, rich in flavor and perfectly suited for a long, leisurely meal.
Together, these elements create a warm and inviting spring table—where seasonal cooking and natural styling come together in a way that feels both elevated and beautifully understated.
These slow-braised lamb shanks are a perfect dish for spring—hearty yet refined, with delicate, aromatic flavors that suit the season beautifully. The long, gentle cooking process results in exceptionally tender meat, while the simple combination of wine, herbs, and vegetables creates a rich, elegant jus. Ideal for a relaxed weekend meal or a special gathering, this dish pairs wonderfully with fresh garnishes and light accompaniments.
Slow cooked Lamb Shanks ( serves 6) Keep in mind you do not need to be precise about the measurements when making the lamb.
6 lamb shanks
2 large white onion or shallots
1 entire garlic bulb
1 carrot
2 celery stalks
Handful of mix of herbs ( Thyme, rosemary, chives)
2-3 litres of water
seasalt/ black peppercorns/ all spice pepper
Splash of red wine (about 1 dl)
1 cinammon stick
3 bay leaves
1 organic vegetable stock cube
Olive oil
To prepare the lamb shanks, begin by selecting a large, heavy-based pot with a tight-fitting lid. Place the pot over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the lamb shanks and sear them for approximately 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are lightly browned on all sides.
Next, add the roughly chopped vegetables. These can be simply halved, as they are intended to impart flavor rather than be served. Pour in a splash of wine, followed by enough water to fully submerge the lamb shanks. Add the desired spices, then cover the pot with the lid.
Allow the dish to simmer gently on the stovetop for 5–7 hours. Alternatively, the pot can be transferred to an oven preheated to 150°C and cooked for the same duration. The lamb is ready when the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
To serve, place a lamb shank over a bed of mashed potatoes. Spoon several tablespoons of the cooking jus over the top. Finish with a garnish of microgreens, freshly ground black pepper, and a light sprinkle of Maldon salt.
These spring arrangements capture the soft, natural beauty of the season, bringing a sense of warmth and effortless elegance into the home. Delicate blooms in gentle, creamy tones evoke the freshness of early spring, while their loose, unstructured placement keeps the overall look relaxed and organic—perfect for both everyday styling and seasonal entertaining.
For an Easter-inspired touch, the arrangements are complemented by rustic elements such as twigs and hay, thoughtfully arranged to create a nest-like composition. This layered, textural base adds depth and a subtle connection to nature, enhancing the seasonal feel without appearing overly styled. Softly tucking hay around the flowers further reinforces this relaxed aesthetic, allowing the arrangement to feel abundant yet uncontrived.
To complete the look, decorative eggs can be nestled within the arrangement, adding a charming nod to Easter traditions. Whether placed delicately among the greenery or within the twig nest, they provide a playful yet refined detail that ties the entire composition together.
