As the crisp autumn air settles in, it's time to shift from light summer meals to heartier, more comforting dishes. One of the best Italian recipes for the season is Osso Buco, a rich and flavorful slow-cooked veal dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. In this post, we’ll walk you through making this classic at home, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality Osso Buco right from your kitchen.
What is Osso Buco?
Osso Buco, meaning “bone with a hole” in Italian, refers to the veal shank used in the dish. The bone marrow inside the shank adds a richness to the braising liquid as it cooks, creating a deeply flavorful sauce that’s perfect for fall. The dish has its roots in northern Italy, specifically Milan, where it's typically paired with a side of risotto alla Milanese.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make Osso Buco at home:
- 4 veal shanks (about 1.5 inches thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging
- Olive oil and butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of dry white wine
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 2 cups of beef or veal broth
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Zest of 1 lemon and fresh parsley for gremolata (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Veal Shanks
Start by seasoning the veal shanks with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour. Heat a combination of olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sear the shanks on all sides until they’re golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the shanks and set them aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
3. Deglazing and Building the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot—this is where a lot of flavor comes from. Let the wine simmer and reduce by half. Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Braising the Veal
Nestle the browned veal shanks back into the pot, ensuring they’re partially submerged in the braising liquid. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let the Osso Buco cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and almost falling off the bone. You can also transfer the pot to a 325°F oven for a more even braise.
5. Making the Gremolata (Optional)
For a finishing touch, you can make a gremolata by mixing lemon zest, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. This bright, citrusy topping will cut through the richness of the dish and add a fresh flavor.
6. Serving Osso Buco
Osso Buco is traditionally served with risotto or polenta, both of which soak up the delicious braising liquid. If you’re a fan of fall flavors, you might also enjoy pairing this dish with pumpkin risotto, which you can find featured here. This seasonal pairing will bring out the earthy, comforting notes in both dishes, creating a perfect autumn meal.
Tips for the Perfect Osso Buco
- Choose quality meat: Veal shanks are ideal for Osso Buco, but if veal isn’t available, you can use beef shanks as a substitute. Just keep in mind that beef may need a bit longer to cook.
- Don’t rush the braise: The key to tender Osso Buco is low and slow cooking. Braising at a low temperature allows the meat to break down and absorb all the flavors.
- Wine choice matters: Use a dry white wine for the braise, as it adds acidity and depth to the sauce. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can overpower the dish.
Enjoy the Fall with Homemade Comfort
Osso Buco is the perfect dish for a cozy evening in, and it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. The slow braising process does most of the work for you, while filling your kitchen with the warm, comforting aromas of fall. Paired with a side of risotto or polenta, and perhaps a glass of your favorite wine, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home during the cooler months.
So, this fall, take a break from your usual weeknight meals and try your hand at Osso Buco. It’s a satisfying and delicious way to embrace the season—and who knows, it might just become a new tradition.
