Osso Buco

Osso Buco is one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm, flavorful hug, making you wonder if you’ve just stepped into a cozy Italian trattoria. Imagine succulent veal shanks, braised to perfection, enveloped in a rich sauce that has everyone at the table fighting for the last bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like magic and makes even the most skeptical eaters forget about their diets—at least for today!

this recipe

If you’ve ever experienced a family gathering where someone brings out a dish that stops all conversation, this Osso Buco is it! Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a fancy date night, this dish has the power to elevate any occasion. Trust me, when you plate this beauty, you’ll feel like an Italian nonna ready to share her secret recipe with the world.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Osso Buco:

• Veal Shanks: Opt for well-marbled veal shanks; they provide the best flavor and tenderness during cooking.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color; choose firm ones for the best texture.
• Celery: Adds depth to the dish; use bright green stalks for maximum freshness.
• Onions: A classic flavor base; yellow onions work best due to their balanced sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the dish with aromatic goodness; avoid pre-minced varieties when you can.

For the Sauce:

• White Wine: A dry white wine adds acidity and complexity; choose one you’d enjoy drinking.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while keeping it flavorful.
• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for a richer texture in the sauce; crush them right before adding.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Osso Buco:

Step 1: Brown the Shanks

In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Season your veal shanks with salt and pepper before placing them in the pot. Sear each side until golden brown—that means about 4-5 minutes per side.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

Remove the shanks and toss in those vibrant carrots, celery, onions, and garlic into the same pot. Sauté until they soften up—around five minutes should do it—scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in your dry white wine to deglaze that pot of flavor! Stir everything around ensuring you loosen any stubborn bits stuck on the bottom. Let it simmer for about two minutes until reduced slightly.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Return your golden-brown veal shanks back into the pot. Pour in those crushed tomatoes along with chicken broth—enough to cover shanks halfway—and give it all a gentle stir.

Step 5: Slow Cook Magic

Cover your Dutch oven and transfer it to an oven preheated at 325°F (160°C). Let it cook for about two hours until tender—this is where all those heavenly flavors meld together as if they were meant to be best friends.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once done, carefully transfer your Osso Buco onto plates. Drizzle some of that exquisite sauce over each serving and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!

There you have it—the perfect Osso Buco ready to impress! Just remember not to forget crusty bread on the side—it’s mandatory! Enjoy this delightful dish surrounded by laughter, love, and maybe too much wine because let’s face it: life’s too short not to indulge!

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Osso Buco, start by searing the meat to lock in those savory juices. While that’s happening, chop your vegetables and prep the sauce. Simultaneously, prepare your sides so everything is ready to serve together in perfect harmony.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Osso Buco! Swap out veal for pork or chicken if you prefer. Add a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor or toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate your dish.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the Osso Buco cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat; this preserves the flavor while ensuring you don’t end up with rubbery meat.

One time I made Osso Buco for a family gathering, and my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now I’m convinced I could open a restaurant just based on that compliment alone!

FAQs

What is Osso Buco?

Osso Buco is a traditional Italian dish made from braised veal shanks. The name translates to “bone with a hole,” referring to the marrow-filled bone at the center of the shank. This culinary delight typically features slow-cooked meat, which becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers in a rich sauce made with tomatoes, white wine, and aromatics. Osso Buco is often served with gremolata, a fresh herb condiment that adds brightness and depth to the dish. It’s a comforting meal that showcases the art of Italian cooking.

How do you serve Osso Buco?

Serving Osso Buco is an essential part of enjoying this delectable dish. Traditionally, it is accompanied by creamy risotto or polenta, which complements the rich flavors of the braised meat. A sprinkle of gremolata on top adds freshness and contrast. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Pairing Osso Buco with a robust red wine enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.

Can you make Osso Buco in advance?

Yes, you can make Osso Buco in advance, which enhances its flavors. Once cooked, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating gently on the stovetop will keep the meat tender. Some people even believe that Osso Buco tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.

What are some variations of Osso Buco?

While traditional Osso Buco uses veal shanks, there are several delicious variations to explore. You can use pork or lamb shanks for a different flavor profile while maintaining similar cooking techniques. Additionally, some recipes incorporate various vegetables like carrots and celery for added nutrition and taste. For a lighter twist, consider using chicken thighs instead of shanks. Each variation offers unique flavors while still celebrating the essence of this classic Italian dish.

Conclusion

In summary, Osso Buco is a rich and flavorful Italian dish celebrated for its tender meat and delectable marrow. It serves beautifully alongside risotto or polenta and can be made in advance for convenience. With its various adaptations available, everyone can find an enjoyable version of this classic recipe. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or as a comforting family meal, Osso Buco remains a favorite that delights palates worldwide.

Print

Osso Buco

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Osso Buco is a delightful Italian classic that features succulent braised veal shanks simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish offers a heartwarming experience, perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations. With its tender meat and vibrant presentation, Osso Buco transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

• Author: Gordon Calloway
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 veal shanks (about 1.5 lbs each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Season veal shanks with salt and pepper, then sear each side until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Remove from pot.
2. In the same pot, sauté carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom; let simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Return the shanks to the pot and add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth until shanks are halfway covered; stir gently.
5. Cover the pot and slow cook in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for about 2 hours until tender.
6. Serve on plates with sauce drizzled on top and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 shank with sauce (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 110mg