How to make Osso Buco simple and easy

Introduction 

Certainly! Let’s dive into the world of gourmet cooking with a classic Italian dish known as “Osso Buco”. This dish, hailing from the fashion capital of Milan, is a testament to Italy’s rich culinary tradition that marries simplicity with robust flavors.

Osso Buco, which translates to “bone with a hole”, is a hearty dish that features braised veal shanks. The veal is slowly simmered with a medley of vegetables, white wine, and broth, allowing the flavors to meld together over time. The result is a tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that is both rich and satisfying.

But what makes Osso Buco truly special is the marrow-filled bone in the center of the veal shank. This is where the dish gets its name and its unique flavor. The marrow, which melts into the sauce during the slow cooking process, gives the dish a depth of flavor that is truly unparalleled.

This dish is typically garnished with gremolata, a zesty mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, which adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the meat and sauce. And to complete the meal, Osso Buco is traditionally served with risotto alla milanese, a creamy risotto infused with saffron.

Cooking Osso Buco is like taking a journey through Italy’s rich culinary landscape. It’s a dish that requires patience and love, but the end result is a gourmet meal that is sure to impress. Alright, let’s get ready to dive into this culinary journey side by side! Buon appetito!

10 Curiosities

1. “Osso Buco” means “bone with a hole” in Italian, a reference to the marrow-filled bone in the center of the veal shank.
2. This dish is traditionally made with veal shanks, but you can also use pork or beef shanks.
3. Osso Buco is typically served with gremolata, a condiment made from lemon zest, garlic, and parsley.
4. This dish is a staple of Lombard cuisine and is traditionally served as a main course.
5. The marrow in the bone is considered a delicacy and is often eaten with a small spoon.
6. Osso Buco is traditionally served with risotto alla milanese, a creamy, saffron-infused risotto.
7. This dish requires slow cooking over low heat to tenderize the meat and develop the flavors.
8. The veal shanks are often dusted with flour before being browned to help thicken the sauce.
9. Osso Buco is a popular dish for special occasions and festive dinners in Italy.
10. Despite its gourmet status, Osso Buco is a rustic, hearty dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights.

Ingredients

• 4 veal shanks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of white wine
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour for dusting
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper, then dust them with flour.
2. Start by heating the olive oil in a spacious pan on medium heat. Add the veal shanks and cook until they turn brown on all sides. Take the veal shanks out of the pan and keep them aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the white wine to the pan, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits.
5. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the veal shanks to the pan, nestling them into the liquid and vegetables.
7. Place a lid on the pan and lower the heat to a minimum.. Let the Osso Buco cook for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed.
8. Serve the Osso Buco with risotto alla milanese and garnish with gremolata.

10 Benefits

1. Osso Buco is a good source of protein, thanks to the veal shanks.
2. The assortment of vitamins and minerals in this meal comes from the vegetables used in its preparation.
3. The white wine used in Osso Buco is rich in antioxidants.
4. Garlic offers anti-inflammatory benefits and can promote a stronger immune system.
5. The marrow in the veal bones is rich in nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron.
6. This dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.
7. Osso Buco is a hearty and satisfying dish that can help keep you full and satisfied.
8. The slow cooking process used in this dish helps to develop a deep, complex flavor.
9. This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
10. Lastly, Osso Buco is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.