Are you craving a truly delicious, melt-in-your-mouth meal that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Osso Buco recipe takes inspiration from the culinary queen herself, Giada De Laurentiis, offering a simplified yet authentic taste of Italy. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times – this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressing your family and friends with minimal fuss. Prepare to be amazed by the tender veal shanks and rich, flavorful sauce. This is a delicious dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, showcasing the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4 veal shanks (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Gremolata (optional): Zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Veal Shanks
Pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Sear the veal shanks on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Osso Buco
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Return the veal shanks to the pot. Add the chicken broth, ensuring the shanks are mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
Step 5: Braising Time
Braising the veal shanks will allow them to become incredibly tender. Let them braise for at least 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. The longer they braise, the more tender they become. Check periodically to ensure the liquid doesn't evaporate too much; add a little more broth if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Once the veal shanks are cooked through, remove them from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce. You can either serve the Osso Buco directly from the sauce or thicken it slightly by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of gremolata (optional) before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Osso Buco:
- Choose quality veal shanks: The quality of the veal will significantly impact the final dish.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Sear the shanks in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Low and slow is key: Braising at a low temperature allows the connective tissues in the veal to break down, resulting in incredibly tender meat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Season the dish to your liking throughout the cooking process.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like rosemary or basil.
- Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 35-40g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. The rich flavors and tender veal will leave you wanting more! It's one of those best recipes that’s easily adaptable to your preferences, guaranteeing a satisfying and memorable culinary experience. Happy cooking!