Classic Braised Beef Shank Osso Buco

Osso Buco, which translates to “bone with a hole,” is a traditional Italian dish that has gained worldwide acclaim for its tender, slow-cooked meat and rich, flavorful sauce. While traditionally made with veal, this beef shank Osso Buco recipe is a hearty and accessible version, offering all the warmth and sophistication of the original. The star of the dish is the marrow-filled beef shank, which becomes meltingly tender as it simmers in a savory braising liquid of wine, broth, tomatoes, and aromatics.

Served over creamy risotto, mashed potatoes, or polenta, this Classic Braised Beef Shank Osso Buco makes for an impressive main course for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the addition of a bright gremolata topping at the end provides a fresh contrast to the dish’s richness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating your family to something special, this recipe is sure to be a showstopper.

Let’s explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and creative ways to customize and serve this comforting Italian classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: This dish combines the elegance of fine dining with the comfort of home-cooked food.
• Tender, Flavorful Meat: Slow-braising ensures the beef shanks become fall-apart tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Versatile Pairings: From risotto Milanese to creamy mashed potatoes, there are endless ways to serve Osso Buco.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday meal or a romantic dinner, this dish never fails to impress.
• Customizable: Adjust the herbs, wine, or vegetables to suit your preferences.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 beef shank with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 37g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Osso Buco

• 4 beef shanks (about 2 inches thick, each with marrow bones intact)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine (or red wine for a deeper flavor)
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary

For the Gremolata Topping (Optional)

• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Shanks

1. Pat the beef shanks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures they sear properly.
2. Season both sides of the shanks with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Shanks

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef shanks to the pot and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Remove the shanks and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
2. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, or until softened and lightly caramelized.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Pour the white wine into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.
2. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Build the Braising Liquid

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and rosemary sprig.
2. Return the seared shanks to the pot, ensuring they’re partially submerged in the liquid.

Step 6: Braise the Osso Buco

1. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
2. Braise for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the marrow is soft. Check occasionally and add more broth if the liquid reduces too much.

Step 7: Prepare the Gremolata

1. While the Osso Buco is cooking, mix the lemon zest, parsley, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This fresh, zesty topping will brighten the dish.

Step 8: Serve the Osso Buco

1. Remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaf and rosemary sprig.
2. Plate the beef shanks and spoon the sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle with gremolata if desired. Serve with your preferred side dish and enjoy!

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Over Risotto Milanese: Serve the Osso Buco over saffron-infused risotto for a classic Italian pairing.
2. With Polenta: Spoon the beef and sauce over creamy polenta for a comforting, rustic presentation.
3. Rustic Style: Serve directly from the Dutch oven for a family-style meal that invites sharing.
4. Inside Bread Bowls: Ladle the Osso Buco into hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls for a unique, edible serving vessel.
5. Dinner Party Plating: Plate each shank individually with a side of mashed potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley for an elegant presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Cut: Beef shanks with intact marrow bones are essential for this dish. The marrow adds richness to the sauce.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing: Browning the meat creates a caramelized crust that enhances the overall flavor.
3. Monitor the Liquid: Ensure the shanks remain partially submerged during braising to prevent drying out. Add more broth as needed.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work, fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

1. Lamb Osso Buco: Replace the beef with lamb shanks for a milder flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomato-based sauce.
2. Spicy Osso Buco: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a touch of heat.
3. Tomato-Free Version: Skip the tomatoes and use beef broth, red wine, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a rich, earthy sauce.
4. Vegetable Boost: Include mushrooms, parsnips, or zucchini in the braising liquid for added texture and flavor.
5. Dairy-Free Option: Skip the gremolata or use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

Freezing and Storage

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
2. Freezing: Allow the Osso Buco to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating Tips: Thaw frozen Osso Buco in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a pot over low heat, adding broth to maintain moisture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Lean Protein: Substitute the beef with veal or turkey shanks for a lighter alternative.
2. Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables instead of risotto or potatoes.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging the shanks and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
4. Extra Vegetables: Bulk up the dish with kale, spinach, or sweet potatoes for added nutrients.
5. Reduce Fat: Use less olive oil and trim excess fat from the beef shanks to make the dish lighter.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Holiday Dinner: Pair Osso Buco with risotto Milanese and roasted asparagus for an elegant holiday spread.
2. Casual Family Meal: Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting, home-style dinner.
3. Romantic Dinner: Plate the Osso Buco individually with a side of crusty bread and a glass of red wine for a romantic meal.
4. Dinner Party Showstopper: Garnish with gremolata and serve with creamy polenta for an unforgettable dinner party entrée.
5. Potluck Dish: Bring Osso Buco in a slow cooker to keep it warm and easy to serve at gatherings.

Special Equipment

1. Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is ideal for searing and slow-cooking the shanks evenly.
2. Tongs: Tongs make it easy to turn the shanks while searing.
3. Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and deglazing without scratching the pot.
4. Microplane Zester: Essential for zesting lemon for the gremolata.
5. Ladle: Makes serving the sauce neat and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Absolutely! After searing the shanks and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
2. What wine works best for Osso Buco?
   Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or red wine like Pinot Noir are excellent choices.
3. How do I thicken the sauce?
   If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken.
4. Is Osso Buco gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for dredging the shanks.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! Osso Buco tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
6. What’s the purpose of gremolata?
   Gremolata adds a fresh, zesty contrast that balances the richness of the dish.
7. What sides go well with Osso Buco?
   Risotto, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are all great pairings.
8. Can I use canned tomatoes?
   Yes, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly and save time.

Conclusion

Classic Braised Beef Shank Osso Buco is a timeless Italian dish that combines tender, slow-cooked meat with a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This dish transforms humble ingredients into an elegant and satisfying meal, perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

The long braising time allows the beef to become fork-tender while the sauce develops deep, complex flavors. The gremolata topping adds a burst of brightness, making every bite a delightful balance of richness and freshness. Whether you’re serving it with risotto, polenta, or mashed potatoes, this recipe is sure to impress.

Add this Osso Buco recipe to your repertoire, and you’ll have a go-to dish for creating lasting memories around the dinner table. With its versatility, bold flavors, and sophisticated presentation, it’s a meal that never fails to delight.

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