Ossobuco (Italian)
Ossobuco is a traditional Italian dish that consists of tender veal shanks braised in a flavorful tomato and vegetable sauce. This hearty meal is a perfect example of Italian cuisine’s rich and bold flavors, and it has become popular worldwide due to its delicious taste and unique preparation method.
The name “ossobuco” means “bone with a hole” in Italian, which refers to the marrow-filled bone in the center of the veal shank. This bone not only adds to the dish’s flavor but also gives it a distinct presentation. The veal shanks are lightly floured and then browned in olive oil, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
To make the sauce, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic are sautéed until softened and fragrant. Then, tomatoes, beef broth, and white wine are added to create a rich and savory sauce. The veal shanks are then added to the sauce, and the dish is simmered for several hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
Ossobuco is traditionally served with gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, which adds a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish. The gremolata balances the richness of the sauce and complements the tender veal shanks perfectly. Ossobuco pairs well with risotto alla milanese or polenta, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
In addition to being a classic Italian dish, ossobuco has also gained popularity in French cuisine, where it is known as “osso buco à la milanaise.” Nowadays, it is enjoyed all over the world and is often featured on the menus of high-end restaurants.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that will impress your guests, ossobuco is an excellent choice. Its rich and bold flavors, tender veal shanks, and unique presentation make it a true standout in Italian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, ossobuco is a dish that anyone can master with a little patience and effort.
Traditional Ossobuco Recipe
If you are in the mood for a classic Italian dish, look no further than traditional ossobuco. This hearty meal is made with tender veal shanks that have been slow-cooked until they are falling off the bone. The dish is traditionally served with a side of risotto alla milanese, but can also be enjoyed with a variety of other sides.
To start, you will need to gather your ingredients. For the ossobuco itself, you will need veal shanks, olive oil, butter, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, canned tomatoes, beef stock, white wine, bay leaves, and thyme. For the risotto, you will need Arborio rice, butter, onion, chicken stock, saffron, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Begin by seasoning the veal shanks with salt and pepper, and then dredging them in flour. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the veal shanks and brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the wine to a boil and cook until it has reduced by half.
Add the canned tomatoes, beef stock, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot. Return the veal shanks to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and let cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
While the ossobuco is cooking, prepare the risotto. In a separate pot, melt butter and sauté onion until softened. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with the butter. Pour in the chicken stock and saffron, and cook until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Serve the ossobuco hot, topped with gremolata (a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) and a side of risotto alla milanese. This traditional Italian dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a hearty meal.
Variations of Ossobuco Recipe
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you’ve probably heard of ossobuco. This traditional Milanese dish made with braised veal shanks is a favorite among foodies worldwide. However, did you know that there are various ways to prepare ossobuco? In this article, we’re going to explore different variations of the ossobuco recipe.
One popular variation is the classic ossobuco alla Milanese. This version typically includes vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots, which are sautéed before being combined with white wine and broth to create a savory sauce. The veal shanks are then browned and added to the pan to braise slowly until they become tender. This variation is served with gremolata, a mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, which adds a bright, fresh flavor to the rich, meaty stew.
Another delicious variation of ossobuco is the ossobuco in bianco, which means “in white.” This version omits the tomato-based sauce and instead uses chicken or beef broth as the base for the cooking liquid. The result is a lighter-colored dish with a delicate flavor that allows the natural sweetness of the meat to shine through.
For those who prefer a spicier twist on the classic ossobuco recipe, ossobuco al curry may be just what you’re looking for. This variation uses Indian spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin to add a bold, exotic flavor to the dish. The veal shanks are first coated in the spice mix before being seared and then braised in a tomato-based sauce with coconut milk to create an unforgettable fusion of flavors.
Last but not least, ossobuco alla parmigiana is a decadent take on the traditional ossobuco recipe. This variation involves topping the braised veal shanks with melted Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and indulgent dish that is sure to impress. This version is typically served with a side of creamy risotto or polenta, making it the ultimate comfort food.
In conclusion, ossobuco is a versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways depending on your tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer classic flavors or bold spices, there’s a variation of the recipe that will suit your palate. So why not try a different take on this beloved Italian classic next time you’re in the kitchen? Your taste buds will thank you.
How to Cook Ossobuco
Ossobuco, an Italian dish that translates to “bone with a hole,” is a delicious meal that features tender veal shanks braised in a flavorful mixture of vegetables, broth, and wine. Although it might seem daunting to prepare, cooking ossobuco is actually quite simple and straightforward. In this article, we’ll go over the steps to cook your own delicious ossobuco at home.
Firstly, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. You’ll need four veal shanks, one diced onion, two diced carrots, two diced celery stalks, four cloves of minced garlic, one cup of beef or chicken broth, one cup of dry white wine, two tablespoons of tomato paste, and a handful of fresh parsley leaves.
To begin cooking, heat up some olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your veal shanks with salt and pepper, then sear them on both sides for a few minutes until they’re nicely browned. Remove the shanks from the pot and set them aside.
Next, add in your diced onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté the vegetables until they’re softened and lightly browned, around 5-7 minutes. Add in your minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Now it’s time to add back the veal shanks to the pot. Pour in your broth and white wine, and add in your tomato paste. Stir everything together, making sure the shanks are mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
Let the ossobuco simmer for around 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily. Once it’s ready, serve your ossobuco hot with a sprinkling of fresh parsley leaves on top.
In conclusion, cooking ossobuco might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple and straightforward. With just a few key ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and hearty Italian meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family. So grab your ingredients and get cooking!
Best Wines to Pair with Ossobuco
Ossobuco, an Italian specialty dish made with braised veal shanks, is a delicious and hearty meal that deserves to be paired with the perfect wine. The rich and flavorful meat of the ossobuco pairs perfectly with certain types of wines, enhancing the overall dining experience. In this article, we will discuss the best wines to pair with ossobuco.
One of the best wines to pair with ossobuco is Barolo, a full-bodied and robust red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy. This wine has a high tannin content that balances well with the fattiness of the veal shank, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish. Barolo has flavors of dark fruit, tobacco, and leather that complement the earthy flavors of the ossobuco.
Another great wine to pair with ossobuco is Chianti Classico, a medium-bodied red wine that is also from Italy. Chianti Classico has a fruity and spicy flavor profile with a hint of herbal notes. The wine’s acidity helps cut through the fat of the meat, making it a perfect pairing for ossobuco. Its tannins add structure to the wine, balancing out the flavors of the dish.
For those who prefer white wine, Gavi di Gavi is a fantastic choice for pairing with ossobuco. This light and crisp wine comes from the Piedmont region of Italy and is made with the Cortese grape. Gavi di Gavi has flavors of green apple, lemon, and mineral notes that complement the delicate flavors of the veal shank. Its acidity helps to cut through the richness of the dish, making it a refreshing pairing.
In conclusion, there are several great wines to pair with ossobuco. Whether you prefer a full-bodied red wine like Barolo, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti Classico, or a light and crisp white wine like Gavi di Gavi, there is a perfect pairing for every taste. So the next time you’re enjoying a plate of delicious ossobuco, be sure to try one of these wines to complete the dining experience.
Serving Suggestions for Ossobuco
Ossobuco is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed by food lovers for generations. The name “ossobuco” means “bone with a hole,” which refers to the marrow-filled bone in the center of the dish. The traditional ingredients include veal shanks, vegetables, and broth, but there are many variations that can be made to suit individual tastes.
When it comes to serving ossobuco, there are several options to consider. One popular suggestion is to serve it over creamy polenta, which provides a smooth texture that complements the richness of the meat. Alternatively, you could serve it with mashed potatoes or risotto for a heartier meal. Another option is to serve it alongside a vegetable side dish such as roasted carrots or sautéed spinach.
For those who prefer a lighter meal, ossobuco can also be served with a refreshing salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would be an excellent complement to the meaty flavors of the dish. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese on top of the salad will provide a sharp contrast to the flavors in the ossobuco.
When it comes to wine pairings, a full-bodied red wine like Barolo or Chianti would be an excellent choice to complement the rich flavors of the dish. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would also work well.
In summary, there are many ways to serve ossobuco depending on your personal preferences. Whether you choose to pair it with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, risotto, vegetables, or salad, the key is to find a complementary flavor profile that enhances the dish. With the right serving suggestions and wine pairing, ossobuco can be transformed into a memorable culinary experience that will leave your taste buds exploding with delight.
Health Benefits of Ossobuco
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you’ve likely heard of Ossobuco – a flavorful dish featuring slow-cooked veal shanks and a fragrant sauce. But did you know this delicious meal also comes with several health benefits? Here are some reasons why you might want to add Ossobuco to your diet.
Firstly, Ossobuco is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Veal, the primary ingredient in Ossobuco, contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. A 100-gram serving of veal provides about 25 grams of high-quality protein, making it an ideal food choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to build muscle.
Another significant benefit of Ossobuco is its high concentration of collagen, a protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints. Collagen helps to support the structure of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage, which can help alleviate joint pain and improve mobility. It also helps to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, giving your skin a more youthful appearance.
Ossobuco is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and phosphorus. Iron is essential for delivering oxygen to cells, while zinc is necessary for a healthy immune system and wound healing. Phosphorus is a critical component of bone health, helping to keep bones strong and healthy.
Lastly, the long cooking time involved in making Ossobuco also has some health benefits. Slow cooking breaks down the connective tissue in the meat, making it easier to digest and absorb nutrients. Additionally, the bone marrow in the veal shank contains several valuable nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K2, which are released into the sauce during cooking.
In conclusion, Ossobuco is a delicious and healthy dish that can provide several health benefits. It’s high in protein, collagen, vitamins, and minerals, making it an ideal food choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing. So why not give this traditional Italian dish a try and reap the rewards?
