How to Make the Perfect Slow Braised Osso Buco
Italian · Easy · 105 min · 4 servings
This tender fall-off-the-bone Italian braised meat dish is a kid friendly comfort food that practically melts in your mouth. The rich tomato and vegetable sauce is so flavorful that even picky kids will clean their plates.
Why this recipe works
This Slow Braised Osso Buco recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 105 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 pieces cross-cut beef or veal shanks
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Brown the Shanks
Season the shanks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat and brown the shanks on both sides for about 4 minutes per side until a nice golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot reduce heat to medium and add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize, scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Braise Low and Slow
Return the shanks to the pot and pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. The liquid should come halfway up the shanks. Cover and cook over low heat for 90 minutes until the meat is completely tender and falling off the bone.
Step 4: Serve Over Risotto
Carefully remove the shanks and place each one over a bowl of creamy polenta or risotto. Spoon plenty of the rich braising sauce over the top and serve immediately for a restaurant quality family dinner.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- veal shanks → beef shanks which are easier to find and more budget friendly
- beef broth → chicken broth for a lighter flavor kids may prefer
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the browning step which is essential for building deep flavor
- Cooking at too high a heat which makes the meat tough instead of tender
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 38g protein, 18g carbs, 22g fat, 3g fiber.
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