Bell-Cooked Lamb Shanks with Lemon Potatoes

The Ionian island of Cephalonia is known for its beautiful beaches, underground waterways, and also for its two famous lamb dishes: a mixed meat pie and this juicy lamb shank preparation.

Normally I braise lamb shanks, but here they are roasted over a bed of lemon-flavored potatoes beneath a clay dome, or “bell, ” cover. The moist heat results in crusty brown lamb that is packed with flavor and extremely juicy, with a unique buttery texture. Lemon-scented potatoes pair beautifully w