The Perfect Comfort Dish for a Cozy Meal
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| Beef Shank Osso Buco |
What Makes Beef Shank Osso Buco So Special?
Osso Buco, traditionally made with veal, becomes incredibly rich and flavorful when prepared with beef shanks. This cut, with its unique marrow-filled bone, transforms into a tender, juicy masterpiece after slow cooking. Braised in a savory tomato and wine sauce, Beef Shank Osso Buco is a hearty dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and delivers mouthwatering flavor with every bite. This classic Italian recipe is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or any time you crave a comforting meal.
Ideal Sides for Beef Shank Osso Buco (Plus More Cozy Recipes!)
This Beef Shank Osso Buco pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or risotto, which soak up the rich sauce. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables, or go for a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re a fan of slow-cooked meals, try pairing this with other cozy Italian recipes, like a warm minestrone soup or garlic bread.
Pro Tips for the Best Beef Shank Osso Buco
- Sear the Meat Well: Browning the beef shanks adds a deeper, more robust flavor to the final dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary bring out the natural flavors in the beef and sauce.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Cook the osso buco over low heat for tender, fall-apart meat.
- Serve with Gremolata: Sprinkle gremolata (lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) on top for a bright finish that cuts through the richness.
How to Make Beef Shank Osso Buco
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 2-3 hours | 2 hours, 15-3 hours, 15 mins |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef shanks | 4 large |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large |
| Carrot (chopped) | 1 large |
| Celery (chopped) | 1 stalk |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Canned crushed tomatoes | 1 cup |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Red wine | 1 cup |
| Fresh thyme and rosemary | A few sprigs |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Gremolata (optional) | For garnish |
Method
.webp "Beef Shank Osso Buco") |
| Beef Shank Osso Buco |
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef Shanks
- Season and Dredge the Shanks: Season the beef shanks with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour to coat.
- Sear in Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The beef shanks should be seared until golden brown on all sides. Take out of the pot and place aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the Mirepoix: Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Deglaze with Wine: Add the red wine, making sure to scrape away any browned pieces from the pot's bottom. Reduce by half after a few minutes of simmering.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir together the crushed tomatoes and beef broth after adding them. Put back into the pot the seared meat shanks.
- Include Herbs: Add the bay leaf, rosemary sprigs, and fresh thyme. Turn down the heat to low and cover the pot.
Step 4: Slow-Cook the Osso Buco
- Simmer: Allow the osso buco to cook gently over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check occasionally and add more broth if needed.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.If necessary, add extra broth and check periodically.
- Adjust Seasoning: Use salt and pepper to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Top with Gremolata (Optional): Just before serving, sprinkle gremolata over the top for a fresh, citrusy finish.
- Serve Hot: Serve the osso buco with your choice of mashed potatoes, risotto, or polenta.
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Tips for the Best Results
- Use Bone-In Beef Shanks: The bone marrow adds extra flavor and richness to the sauce.
- Sear Well: A deep brown sear on the beef shanks adds incredible depth to the final dish.
- Cook Slowly: Low and slow cooking is key for tender meat and a rich sauce.
Nutritional Value per Serving (4 servings total)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 45 g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make osso buco using a different cut of meat?
A: Yes, while beef shank is traditional, you can use veal shanks or even lamb shanks for a different flavor profile.
Q: What wine is best for Osso Buco?
A: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works well, as it complements the richness of the beef.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover osso buco in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: What is gremolata, and is it necessary?
A: Gremolata is a mix of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley. It’s optional but adds a refreshing, citrusy finish that enhances the dish.
Conclusion
Creating Beef Shank Osso Buco at home allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. This classic dish, with its rich sauce and tender beef shank, is perfect for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a deeply flavorful meal that’s worth every minute of slow cooking. Try this recipe, and bring the warmth and tradition of Italian cooking to your table