Authentic Osso Buco

Ingredients:

For Ossobuco

4 veal osso buco cross-cut veal shanks with marrow in the bone, 1 to 1 ½ inches thick (3 to 4 cm high)

1 onion medium size

50 g butter ½ stick, unsulted

50 g flour ⅓ cup

100 ml dry white wine ½ cup

600 ml broth 2 cups, made with meat

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin

salt a pinch

black pepper freshly ground

For Gremolata

parsley a bunch

½ lemon zest

1 garlic clove

Instructions:

Cooking the Ossobuco

Step 1:

Cut the white connective tissue surrounding the shank in few places using kitchen shears.

This will prevent the meat from curling and changing shape during cooking.

Then flour the veal shanks on both sides and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large pan, put the butter and oil, add the finely chopped onion and cook over low heat for 3 minutes until the onion becomes transparent.

Step 3:

Put the floured osso buco in the pan with the onion.

Cook them over medium heat for 5 minutes on both sides.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, add the white wine and let it evaporate.

Step 4:

Heat the meat broth (prepared earlier).

Lower the heat and cover the shanks with the hot broth.

Step 5:

Add the tomato paste, stir and let them cook over low heat for about 2 hours, covered with a lid.

About every 30 minutes, turn the veal shanks gently, making sure they don’t stick to the bottom.

Add some broth during cooking only if necessary.

The sauce must be thick and creamy, not too liquid.

The Gremolata

Step 6:

Chop the parsley and the clove of garlic.

Then mix them throughly with the lemon zest.

Step 7:

Add the Gremolata a few minutes before the end of cooking.

Serve the osso buco recipe with Gremolata piping hot, perhaps with some lemon peel as decoration.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is osso buco, and what cut of meat is used for this dish?

Osso buco is an Italian dish made with cross-cut veal shanks, typically about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick, containing marrow in the bone.

This particular cut of meat adds flavor and richness to the dish when cooked slowly.

Why is it necessary to cut the white connective tissue surrounding the shank before cooking?

Cutting the white connective tissue helps prevent the meat from curling and changing shape during cooking.

This step ensures that the veal shanks maintain their presentation and cook evenly.

How long should I cook osso buco, and what consistency should the sauce be?

Osso buco is traditionally cooked slowly over low heat for about 2 hours, covered with a lid.

During cooking, the sauce should gradually thicken and become creamy.

It’s important to turn the veal shanks gently every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Can I substitute other types of wine for dry white wine in this recipe?

While dry white wine is commonly used in osso buco for its flavor, you can experiment with other types of wine, such as dry red wine or even marsala wine, for a different flavor profile.

However, keep in mind that the choice of wine may alter the taste of the final dish.

What is gremolata, and why is it added to osso buco?

Gremolata is a mixture of chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest.

It is added to osso buco a few minutes before the end of cooking to enhance the flavor and provide a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.

The brightness of the lemon zest and parsley complements the rich, savory flavors of the osso buco.

Why is it important to cut the white connective tissue surrounding the shank before cooking?

Cutting the white connective tissue helps prevent the meat from curling and changing shape during cooking.

This step ensures that the veal shanks maintain their presentation and cook evenly.

What role does flour play in the preparation of osso buco?

Flouring the veal shanks helps to create a golden crust when searing them in the pan.

Additionally, it aids in thickening the sauce during the cooking process, resulting in a rich and flavorful consistency.

Is it necessary to use meat broth for cooking osso buco, or can I use vegetable broth instead?

While meat broth is traditionally used in osso buco for its savory flavor, you can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer.

However, keep in mind that the choice of broth will affect the overall taste of the dish.

Can I prepare osso buco in advance, and if so, how should I store it?

Yes, osso buco can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through.

What is the purpose of adding tomato paste to the osso buco?

Tomato paste adds depth of flavor and richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. It also contributes to the beautiful color and texture of the sauce.

Are there any alternatives to veal osso buco that can be used in this recipe?

If you prefer, you can use beef shanks or even lamb shanks as alternatives to veal osso buco.

However, keep in mind that each type of meat will impart its own unique flavor to the dish.

Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the thickness of the shanks.