Instructions: Place shanks in a 12- by 17-inch roasting pan. Bake, uncovered, in a 450 degrees oven for 15 minutes. Add onions; continue roasting until shanks are browned, about 30 minutes longer.

Remove pan from oven; reduce heat to 400 degrees. Add to pan the bell pepper, tomatoes with their juice, broth, pepper, and thyme. Cover tightly; continue baking until meat pulls easily from bone, about 1 1/2 hours longer. Skim fat from pan juices; discard fat. Divide shanks, vegetables, and juices equally among 4 shallow bowls containing hot cooked rice. Add salt to taste.

This recipe yields 4 servings

Comments: "When my husband and I were first courting, we found we had a lot in common, including a favorite restaurant meal at Pauls in Berkeley, which had closed before we met. Fortunately, I had learned to make the dish myself. Love blossomed, and in 20 years we never tire of Turkish Lamb," writes Pam Peeters. Rice or couscous makes a nice accompaniment.

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