Osso Buco – Easy Meals To Cook

When planning a fantastic meal, it’s essential to consider what will accompany your main dish. Osso buco, a classic Italian dish, pairs beautifully with various sides. Think creamy polenta, a classic risotto, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh arugula salad. 

These options not only complement the rich flavors of the osso buco but also balance the meal perfectly.

What is Osso Buco?

Osso buco is a traditional Italian dish primarily made from veal shanks. It is typically braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth. The meat becomes tender, and the marrow inside the bone adds richness and depth of flavor. 

It’s often garnished with gremolata, a mix of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, which enhances the dish with fresh brightness.

Served with a side of risotto or polenta, osso buco transforms a simple meal into something magical. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that’s hard to resist.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Depth of Flavor:

 The base flavors get richer through browning the meat and vegetables. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients—wine, stock, and herbs—to meld together beautifully, creating an extraordinary flavor profile.

2. Tender Texture:

 Veal shanks are incredibly succulent. When braised, they reach a level of tenderness that makes them practically melt in your mouth. You won’t experience this with faster-cooking meats.

3. Nutritious and Satisfying:

 Osso buco isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The slow cooking extracts minerals from the bones, making it a wholesome dish. Pair with fresh vegetables, and you’ve got a balanced meal.

4. Versatility in Serving:

 This dish is incredibly versatile. You can present it with risotto, creamy polenta, or even a crusty piece of bread. Each brings a different experience to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Osso Buco

For the Osso Buco:

– 2 1/2 to 3 pounds veal shanks

– Flour for lightly dusting the meat

– 4 ounces pancetta, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces

– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot

– 1/2 cup diced celery

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 tablespoons minced garlic

– 3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme, tied together

– 1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

– 1 to 2 cups chicken or veal stock (preferably homemade)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Gremolata:

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

– 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest 

– 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped

How To Make Osso Buco?

Step 1: Prepare the Veal Shanks

First, pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice browning. Dust them lightly with flour and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sauté the Pancetta

In a large Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta and sauté until crispy. This will infuse the base with an incredible flavor. Remove the pancetta and set it aside for later.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Increase the heat and add the veal shanks to the pot. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely brown color. When browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrot, celery, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for around five minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. The smell will be divine!

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release the browned bits. This step is crucial as those bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the dish significantly.

Step 6: Return Everything to the Pot

Once the wine has reduced by half, return the veal shanks and pancetta to the pot. Add in the thyme and enough stock to cover the meat halfway. Bring to a boil.

Step 7: Braise the Osso Buco

Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let it braise for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. When done, the meat should be tender and falling off the bone.

Step 8: Make the Gremolata

While the osso buco is cooking, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, orange zest, and parsley. Set this aside for serving.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the osso buco is ready, serve it warm topped with gremolata. This bright garnish enhances the dish, cutting through the richness of the meat. Enjoy with your choice of sides!

Tips for the Perfect Osso Buco

• Choose Quality Meat: Look for veal shanks from a reputable source. Quality meats yield better flavors.
  
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the osso buco sit for a bit before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
  
• Use Homemade Stock: If possible, homemade chicken or veal stock enhances the richness of the dish.
  
• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Check your seasoning before serving, as flavors can mellow out during cooking. A little extra salt or pepper might be needed.
  
• Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is traditional, consider adding other herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for additional flavor layers.

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers—a rare occurrence, but it happens—make sure to cool the dish completely. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Recommended Side Dishes for Osso Buco

1. Risotto:

 This classic Italian rice dish absorbs all the rich flavors around it. The creaminess of the risotto contrasts beautifully with the tender meat. You can prepare a saffron risotto for an extra touch of luxury.

2. Creamy Polenta:

 Soft, creamy polenta serves as an excellent base for your osso buco. The smoothness provides a perfect backdrop for the hearty sauce, soaking it up wonderfully.

3. Garlic Bread:

 Who can resist warm, crusty garlic bread? It’s perfect for mopping up the flavorful sauce and adds a wonderful crunch to your meal.

4. Fresh Arugula Salad:

 A crisp salad with peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brightens the plate and refreshes your palate amidst the richness of the osso buco.

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

1. Veal:

 If veal isn’t available, you can substitute with pork shanks or lamb shanks. These options still bring that delicious slow-cooked flavor.

2. Pancetta:

 In case pancetta is elusive, prosciutto or even thick-cut bacon will work, adding a smoky flavor instead.

3. White Wine:

 Use broth if white wine isn’t available. Alternatively, a splash of vinegar mixed with water can replicate the acidity.

4. Fresh Herbs:

 If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried herbs sparingly in recipes. Dried thyme can work in a pinch but will have a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

Osso buco is more than a simple dish. It encapsulates the essence of Italian home cooking—rich in flavor, full of history, and designed for sharing. 

By choosing quality ingredients and following a straightforward cooking process, you can create something truly special.

I encourage you to bring this classic recipe into your kitchen. The next time you gather friends or family, you’ll have a centerpiece meal that sparks conversation and joy.

So fire up that oven, don your apron, and let the fragrant aromas fill your home. Happy cooking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• My Favorite Turkey Brine
• Charleston’s Bread Pudding Recipe