Are you craving a truly delicious and comforting meal that doesn't require hours slaving over a hot stove? Look no further! This slow cooker Osso Buco recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth veal shanks with a rich, flavorful sauce – all with minimal effort. It's the perfect example of how easy and healthy meals can be, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this impressive yet surprisingly simple dish! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 4 veal shanks (about 1 ½ pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Gremolata (optional, see variations below)
Instructions:
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Sear the Veal: Pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the veal shanks on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the seared veal shanks and vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the white wine, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, and thyme.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the veal is incredibly tender and easily falls off the bone. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the Osso Buco is cooked, remove the veal shanks from the slow cooker and set aside. Skim off any excess fat from the sauce. You can either serve the sauce as is or use an immersion blender to create a smoother consistency. Return the veal shanks to the sauce to keep them warm. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over polenta, mashed potatoes, or risotto.
Cooking Tips for the Best Osso Buco:
- Don't skip searing: Searing the veal shanks before slow cooking is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful crust.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your veal shanks and your slow cooker. Always check for tenderness before serving.
Variations:
- Gremolata: A classic accompaniment to Osso Buco, Gremolata is a vibrant mixture of finely chopped parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. Add a spoonful to each serving for an extra burst of freshness.
- Lemon: Add the juice of one lemon to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a brighter, more acidic flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the slow cooker.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe represents a delightful blend of homemade cooking and healthy meals; it's easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced cooks. This delicious dish is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy your delicious, slow-cooked Osso Buco!