Osso Buco

Osso buco is a classic Italian dish that is commonly found in restaurants in the USA. The name "osso buco" comes from the Italian language, with "osso" meaning "bone" and "buco" meaning "hole", referring to the cross-cut shanks of veal that are used in the dish, which have a hole in the center where the bone marrow is.

Osso buco is traditionally made with veal shanks that are braised slowly in a flavorful liquid, such as beef or vegetable broth, white wine, and tomatoes. The slow cooking process helps to break down the tough connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and succulent. The resulting dish is typically served with a rich and savory sauce made from the braising liquid, along with gremolata, a mixture of chopped garlic, lemon zest, and parsley.

If you're interested in learning how to make osso buco at home, there are many recipes available online that can guide you through the process. Here are some general steps you can follow:

1. Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper.

2. Dredge the shanks in flour and shake off any excess.

3. Brown the shanks in a hot pan with some oil or butter.

4. Remove the shanks from the pan and set them aside.

5. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pan and cook until they are softened.

6. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

7. Pour in white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

8. Add beef or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.

9. Return the veal shanks to the pan and bring the liquid to a simmer.

10. Cover the pan and transfer it to a preheated oven.

11. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

12. Make the gremolata by mixing chopped garlic, lemon zest, and parsley.

13. Serve the osso buco with the braising liquid and a sprinkle of gremolata.

Enjoy your homemade osso buco!