Beef Osso Buco in Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Osso Buco is a traditional Italian dish that translates to “bone with a hole.” This hearty and flavorful dish features braised veal or beef shanks, which are cooked slowly in a rich, savory sauce. The marrow in the bone adds depth and richness to the dish, making it a perfect comfort food. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious Beef Osso Buco in sauce that is sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Osso Buco:
- 4 beef shanks (about 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Gremolata (optional):
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Shanks:
Begin by patting the beef shanks dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Next, dust the shanks lightly with flour, shaking off any excess. This will help thicken the sauce as the dish cooks.
2. Sear the Shanks:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the beef shanks in batches (do not overcrowd the pot) and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors. Once browned, remove the shanks from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
5. Build the Sauce:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine. Then, return the seared beef shanks to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Add the dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaves, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Braise the Osso Buco:
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise the osso buco for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and falls away from the bone. You can also cook it on the stovetop over low heat, but the oven method allows for more even cooking.
7. Make the Gremolata (Optional):
While the osso buco is braising, prepare the gremolata by combining the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This fresh mixture adds brightness and flavor to the rich dish when served.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once the osso buco is done cooking, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully transfer the shanks to a serving platter and cover them with foil to keep warm. Remove the bay leaves from the sauce and check the seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken it slightly.
To serve, spoon the sauce over the osso buco and sprinkle with the gremolata for a fresh touch. Pair the dish with creamy polenta, risotto, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
This Beef Osso Buco in sauce is a wonderful dish that encapsulates the heartiness of traditional Italian cuisine. The slow-cooked meat, rich sauce, and bright gremolata create a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite!
