How to Cook Our Osso Buco

Veal osso buco, a traditional Italian dish, is a meat preparation that evokes rich and comforting flavors. The combination of simple ingredients such as veal shanks, vegetables, herbs, and white wine transforms into a succulent and hearty dish. So here's our recipe for veal osso buco:

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pieces of veal osso buco
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 carrot, peeled, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 375 ml of dry white wine
• 240 ml of water
• 2 cubes of chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme
• 411 g of diced canned tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 80 ml of fresh parsley, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1 - Preparing the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the veal shanks with salt. Then prepare the vegetables by dicing the onion and carrot, and mincing the garlic. Also, measure out the other ingredients to have them ready for use.

STEP 2 - Searing the Veal Shanks

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the veal shanks and brown them for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove the veal and set it aside. This step seals in the juices and achieves a beautiful golden color.

STEP 3 - Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion, carrot, and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they become slightly tender.

STEP 4 - Deglazing with White Wine

Pour the dry white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the cooking juices. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the wine reduces slightly.

STEP 5 - Preparing the Sauce Base

Add the water, chicken broth cubes, diced canned tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to dissolve the broth cubes. Also, incorporate the fresh thyme to add a touch of aroma.

STEP 6 - Back to the Skillet & Preparation for the Oven

Place the veal osso buco pieces back into the skillet. Ensure they are well immersed in the sauce and that the sauce reaches the sides of the pieces. For an elegant presentation and to help maintain the meat's shape during cooking, you can tie each piece with kitchen twine.

STEP 7 - Baking in the Oven

Preheat your oven to a low and steady temperature, typically around 150°C (300°F). Cover the skillet with an oven-proof lid or use aluminum foil. Place the skillet in the oven and let it gently simmer for about 2 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the meat will become tender and succulent.

STEP 8 - The Finishing Touch

After the 2 hours of cooking, check the tenderness of the meat. If necessary, extend the cooking for a few more minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts, as it will be hot. Gently take out the veal osso buco pieces and place them on a serving dish.

STEP 9 - Garnish and Enjoy

Sprinkle the veal osso buco pieces with chopped fresh parsley and minced garlic for an extra touch of freshness and aroma. Serve the dish hot and savor this explosion of flavors and textures.

By following these simple steps, you can prepare a tasty veal osso buco at home. The combination of stovetop searing and slow oven cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become incredibly tender. Serve it with creamy polenta, fresh pasta, or even a simple crusty bread to complement this comforting and delicious dish. Enjoy your meal!