Cooking lamb in a pressure cooker is one of the quickest ways to achieve tender, juicy, and flavour-packed results. Instead of simmering on the stovetop for hours, pressure cooking softens lamb efficiently while locking in moisture and aroma. Whether you're preparing lamb curry, stew, shanks, or roast-style pieces, knowing the right cooking time ensures perfect texture every time.
How Long Does Lamb Take in a Pressure Cooker?
The cooking time varies depending on the cut and thickness of the lamb. Here is a clear cooking guide to help you get great results:
| Lamb Cut | Size / Preparation | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lamb curry pieces | Chunked, bone-in | 25–30 minutes |
| Lamb stew meat | Boneless cubes | 20–25 minutes |
| Lamb shanks | Whole | 35–40 minutes |
| Lamb shoulder | Cut into large pieces | 30–35 minutes |
| Lamb ribs | Portioned | 18–22 minutes |
Tip: Allow at least 10 minutes of natural pressure release for softer, more flavourful lamb.
How to Cook Lamb in a Pressure Cooker (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare and season the lamb
Trim excess fat and season well with salt, pepper, herbs, or your preferred spices. A quick marinade enhances tenderness and flavour.
2. Brown the lamb (optional but recommended)
Searing the lamb in the pressure cooker pot adds depth and a richer taste. Brown all sides for 3–4 minutes before adding liquids.
3. Add aromatics and liquids
Onions, garlic, tomatoes, herbs, and stock work well with lamb. Add 1–1.5 cups of broth or water to create enough steam for pressure cooking.
4. Lock the lid and pressure cook
Cook according to the time chart above. Start timing only after the cooker reaches full pressure.
5. Release pressure
A natural release helps lamb relax and stay tender. Quick release is fine for smaller cuts.
6. Check tenderness
The lamb should be soft, easily shreddable, or fork-tender depending on the cut.
Delicious Dishes You Can Make with Pressure-Cooked Lamb
- Slow-cooked style lamb curry
- Hearty lamb stew with vegetables
- Soft, fall-off-the-bone lamb shanks
- Greek-inspired lemon lamb
- Lamb for wraps, biryani, and rice bowls
Tips for Perfect Pressure-Cooked Lamb
- Cut lamb into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Browning the meat enhances flavour significantly.
- Avoid overfilling the cooker for proper pressure buildup.
- Add fresh herbs at the end for brightness.
- Use natural release for more tender lamb.
Shop Quality Pressure Cookers
At The Living Styles, we offer pressure cookers built for durability, safety, and consistent cooking performance. Whether you’re preparing lamb, soups, curries, or everyday meals, our collection includes top-rated options from WMF, Scanpan, Pyrolux, and Wiltshire. These brands are trusted for strong construction, even heat distribution, and user-friendly designs.
