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Lamb Shank Calories
Rich in iron and protein, slow-cooked lamb meat
In season: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
CALORIES
GI
POTASSIUM
FIBER
Quick answer
1 piece (medium) of Lamb Shank (250 g) has 550 calories. That works out to 220 calories per 100 g. It contains 0 g of carbs, 56.3 g of protein, 36.3 g of fat and 0 g of fiber. Its 6.8 µg of B12 covers 281% of the Daily Value. Its glycemic index is 0 (low), so it raises blood sugar slowly.
What is Lamb Shank?
Lamb Shank is the lower-leg cut of a lamb, usually cooked on the bone. Its connective tissue softens during long, gentle cooking, leaving the meat tender enough to pull away from the bone. It is well suited to braising in a covered pot or roasting slowly with aromatics.
In Turkey, where this cut is often called kuzu incik, it may be served with rice, potatoes or vegetables as a substantial main course. In other kitchens, it is also common in slow-cooked stews with herbs and stock. It is a protein-rich choice with no carbohydrates; pair it with vegetables and use a modest amount of added fat if you want a lighter meal.
Lamb Shank Nutrition Facts
Selected: 100 g
220
KCAL / 100G
Carbs
0g
· 0% DV
Protein
22.5g
· 45% DV
Fat
14.5g
· 19% DV
Fiber
0g
· 0% DV
DV is the share of the daily value covered, on a 2,000 kcal reference diet.
Calories come from: Carbs 0% · Protein 41% · Fat 59%
Lamb Shank Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamins
B12
2.7µg · 113% DV
B3
6.2mg · 39% DV
B2
0.23mg · 18% DV
B5
0.7mg · 14% DV
Minerals
Zinc
4mg · 36% DV
Phosphorus
180mg · 26% DV
Selenium
8µg · 15% DV
Iron
2mg · 11% DV
How Nutritious Is Lamb Shank?
Nutrient density
High
How many vitamins, minerals and how much fiber this food carries per calorie. A high score means a lot of nutrition for few calories.
Satiety score
Medium
An EatBetter score computed from fiber, protein and calorie density. A high score means staying full longer on the same calories.
Both scores are calculated per 100 g and do not change with the selected portion. The satiety score is EatBetter's own calculation, not a clinical measure.
Lamb Shank Glycemic Index
GLYCEMIC INDEX
GLYCEMIC LOAD
Accounts for portion size — a more realistic measure than GI alone.
How to Burn Off Lamb Shank
To burn the 220 calories in 100 g:
🚶
Walking (5 km/h)
🏃
Running (8 km/h)
🚴
Cycling
🏊
Swimming
Times are calculated with the MET equation for a 70 kg adult. Actual burn varies with your weight, age and pace.
Is Lamb Shank Processed?
NOVA 1
Unprocessed
1. Unprocessed
2. Minimally Processed
3. Processed
4. Ultra-Processed
NOVA classifies foods into 4 groups by industrial processing. NOVA 1 (unprocessed) is the healthiest.
Does Lamb Shank Contain Allergens?
No known major allergens
Which Diets Is Lamb Shank Good For?
Vegan
— Not suitable
Vegetarian
— Not suitable
Gluten-Free
✓ Suitable
Dairy-Free
— Not suitable
Mediterranean
✓ Suitable
Paleo
✓ Suitable
Whole30
— Not suitable
DASH
— Not suitable
Keto
✓ Suitable
Low FODMAP
— Not suitable
Lamb Shank Fat Profile
SATURATED
6.2g
MONOUNSATURATED
6.1g
POLYUNSATURATED
1.1g
Omega 6:3 ratio 3.1:1
Below the ideal 4:1 — a good omega balance.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lamb Shank
What is lamb shank, and where does it come from?
Lamb shank is the lower part of a lamb’s leg, usually sold bone-in. This hardworking cut has plenty of connective tissue, which makes slow, moist cooking a better choice than quick pan-frying.
How do you cook lamb shanks so they become tender?
Braise lamb shanks slowly in a covered pot with some liquid until the meat easily separates from the bone. Low, steady heat gives the connective tissue time to soften without drying out the meat.
Can you cook lamb shanks in a slow cooker?
Yes, lamb shanks work well in a slow cooker. Add aromatics and enough cooking liquid to create a moist environment, then cook until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
Do lamb shanks need to be browned before braising?
No, browning lamb shanks is optional, but it adds a deeper, roasted flavor to the finished dish. If you have time, brown the meat on all sides before adding the braising liquid.
Do lamb shanks need to be covered with liquid while braising?
No, lamb shanks do not need to be fully submerged. Add enough liquid to create steam and keep the covered pot moist; turning the shanks during cooking helps them braise evenly.
Can you grill lamb shanks?
Lamb shanks are not ideal for quick grilling because their connective tissue needs time to soften. Braise them first until tender; you can then briefly grill or broil them to add a browned finish.
How can you tell when a lamb shank is cooked?
A lamb shank is ready when a fork slides into the meat easily and the meat begins to pull away from the bone. If it still feels firm, continue cooking it gently rather than raising the heat.
What should you serve with lamb shanks?
Serve lamb shanks with mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or polenta to soak up the braising juices. A fresh green salad or a sharp, herby sauce can balance the richness of the meat.
Can you trim the fat from lamb shanks before cooking?
Yes, you can trim any thick outer fat from lamb shanks before cooking, but leave a little to help keep the meat moist and flavorful. Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid before serving if needed.
How should you reheat leftover lamb shank?
Reheat leftover lamb shank gently in a covered pan with a little of its cooking liquid, or in a covered oven-safe dish. Gentle heat helps keep the meat moist; refrigerate leftovers promptly in a sealed container.
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Nutrition data compiled from USDA FoodData Central and scientific sources.