Osso buco

Veal osso buco – slow-cooked stew with warm and hearty flavours

Veal osso buco is a stew that has been enjoyed in Italy for generations. Veal shanks are a cut of meat that is particularly well-suited for slow cooking, as the collagen in the meat breaks down over time, resulting in a tender and flavourful dish. In addition to the veal shanks, the dish typically includes a variety of savoury vegetables, such as carrots, onions, and celery, which are sautéed and then braised along with the meat. The slow cooking process allows the flavours to develop and infuse into the meat, resulting in a flavourful and delicious stew.

Savoury vegetables, white wine, and tomatoes for depth

The savoury vegetables, white wine, and tomatoes are essential components that add depth and richness to the stew. The vegetables, which consist of onions, carrots, garlic, and celery, are sautéed until golden brown, releasing their natural sweetness and developing their flavour. The addition of white wine helps create a flavourful broth by cooking down and reducing, allowing the wine to seep into the vegetables and meat, producing an aromatic and flavourful sauce. The tomatoes provide a tart and tangy flavour to balance the stew’s richness, adding brightness and acidity. When combined, these ingredients work in harmony to create a delicious and complex flavour profile that is a hallmark of the osso buco.

Serve osso buco with gremolata and potato mash

Gremolata and potato mash are classic accompaniments to rich and flavourful osso buco. Gremolata is a mixture of coarsely chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest, which provides a bright and zesty contrast to the richness of the meat and sauce. The fresh, citrusy notes of the lemon zest add a burst of flavour that cuts through the rich meat, while the garlic adds a pungent and savoury depth. When combined with the freshness of the parsley, the gremolata provides a delicious balance to the stew’s flavours.

Potato mash, on the other hand, provides a creamy and fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the tender and fall-off-the-bone meat of the osso buco. The mashed potatoes are an excellent vehicle for soaking up the delicious sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavours and textures. The creamy and buttery notes are a comforting and satisfying complement to the rich and savoury meat dish.

Traditional Italian flavours and bright, enticing colours

The bright and enticing colours of osso buco are a testament to the traditional Italian flavours that are at the heart of the recipe. The stew features the colours of the Italian flag with its red tomato-flavoured sauce/juices, white potato mash, and green gremolata, representing Italian pride in their culinary heritage. The vibrant colours complement the rich flavours, creating an appetising and alluring stew that will entice and satisfy your taste buds. While gremolata is not strictly necessary to enjoy osso buco, it is a classic accompaniment that is widely used in traditional Italian cuisine and is considered by many to be an essential part of the dish.

If you are looking to delve into the world of Italian cuisine, you do not want to miss these mouth-watering recipes. For a fresh and flavourful starter, try bruschetta with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil. And for a sweet and indulgent dessert, panna cotta with a berry coulis is sure to hit the spot. If you are looking for more sides to serve with your osso buco, you should try serving it with fried polenta.

Add your own touch to a classic

While osso buco is a traditional recipe, there is always room for a personal touch. You can add a little twist to the recipe by experimenting with different vegetables, such as adding fennel, mushrooms, or even artichokes to the dish. You can also try using different herbs, like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavour. Adding a hint of chilli or red pepper flakes can also add a spicy kick and give it a little bit of heat. If you prefer a sweeter flavour, you can use red wine instead of white wine.