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What could be better on a cold winter night than Osso Buco slow cooked to absolute melt in your mouth goodness? Smoked Osso Buco!!! That does all those things and more. All you need to do is smoke the beef shank before braising it. However it is just as delicious cooked in the oven if you don’t have access to a smoker. It’s super easy to cook and will stun family or dinner guests.

Osso Buco

Indulge in the exquisite delight of Osso Buco, an Italian culinary gem that derives its name from the poetic description of a “bone with a hole.” It is actually a veal shank sliced to create a dish that holds a cherished place among my favourites, captivating both the palate and the senses. Its preparation effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication, making it an irresistible choice for any aspiring home chef.

 

Yet, among the medley of flavors, the true essence of smoked Osso Buco lies within the marrow. Concealed within the bone’s hollow core, emerges as the pièce de résistance of this masterpiece. It offers an unparalleled richness and succulence that infuses each bite with an irresistible allure, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Although the option of smoked Osso Buco exists, it is by no means essential for a remarkable result. While smoking imparts an additional layer of complexity to the dish, amplifying its depth of flavors, don’t worry if  you don’t have access to a BBQ or smoker. I have taken into account both methods of preparing the meat beforehand, ensuring that you can pull this dish off perfectly which ever option available to you.

So, embrace the magic of smoked Osso Buco, a symphony of flavors that celebrates tradition. Allow its heartwarming broth, tender meat, and irresistible marrow to transport you to a place of bliss, where time seems to stand still and each spoonful is a moment to be savoured. Elevate your senses, for Osso Buco awaits, ready to delight and enchant with its undying allure.

What’s in this dish?

Veal Shank – Ideally you will use a veal shank sliced in to decent size pieces. Your butcher will do this for you. If you can’t get your hands on Veal then Lamb Shanks will do the trick. You may have to change the name from Osso Buco to something else however.

Bone Marrow – This is where you are going to get the rich umami flavour into your dish. Nothing beats delicious melt in your mouth meat braised in it’s own creamy bone marrow. Delicious!!! 

Mushrooms – The type of mushroom you use won’t matter here. It will still impart the same flavour. I personally choose button or cup mushrooms and leave them whole. They will shrink in size and give a nice presentation to your dish when plating up

Tomato – When roasting the tomatoes nothing presents better than a nice truss of tomatoes. Roast them up until they start to burst and they will add some colour to your dish. What’s better than roasted tomato?

How to make Smoked Osso Buco!

Smoked Osso Buco is incredibly easy to prepare and make. The hardest part on this dish is the amount of time you want to let your flavours develop in that broth!

1. Whether your Osso Buco is smoked or not step 1 is virtually the same. If you don’t have access to a smoker you will sear your beef shank until golden and crusty on all sides. Some people choose to drench the meat in flour during this step. I find it easier to add a corn flour/starch slurry to my mix toward the end of the cook. That way I get the consistency of my gravy to nice thick rich texture. It’s also easier to braise the meat as it won’t stick to the bottom of the pan as it simmers. Set meat aside.

2. Begin by heating a combination of olive oil and butter in the same pot over medium to medium-high heat. Create your aromatic base by tossing in chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook the vegetables until they become soft and emit a delightful aroma, usually for around 5 minutes. Introduce the mushrooms and continue heating for another 5 minutes until they impart their flavorful essence.

3. Gently pour the dry white wine into the pot, employing a wooden spoon to scrape and gather any flavors lingering from step 2. Simmer the wine, letting it reduce slightly and permeate the air with enticing food aromas.

4. Place the seared veal shanks back into the pot, arranging them in a single, even layer. Add beef stock, mushrooms, tomato paste, paprika, diced tomatoes with their juice, fresh rosemary, oregano, and bay leaves. Simmer, then reduce to low heat, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.

5. Cover the pot with a fitting lid, letting the contents gently simmer over low heat for 2-2.5 hours until the veal reaches a tender state, effortlessly parting from the bone. An alternative approach is to place the pot in a preheated oven set to 150°C (300°F), allowing it to braise for the same duration, enhancing the flavors and texture.

Roasted Tomatoes

1. Drizzle the tomatoes with a generous amount of oil and arrange them on a spacious baking tray lined with parchment paper. Once the Osso Buco has reached a tender state, indicating it’s close to being ready. Carefully place the tray of tomatoes into the oven. Allow them to bake for approximately 15 minutes until the tomatoes gently crack and begin to collapse. Releasing their natural juices and intensifying theri flavours. Divide the truss of tomatoes into manageable portions, ready to be incorporated with the flavourful Osso Buco.

Sides

Gremolata: A zesty mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and fresh parsley sprinkled over the Osso Buco just before serving.

Creamy Risotto: A saffron-infused or Parmesan risotto, offering a luxurious and creamy contrast to the hearty Osso Buco.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth mashed potatoes, providing a perfect base for savoring the flavors of the Osso Buco.

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, offering a fresh and vibrant side.

Crusty Bread: A rustic, crusty bread for soaking up the flavourful sauce from the Osso Buco, making sure nothing goes to waste.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, caramelized to enhance their natural sweetness and complement the savoury Osso Buco.

Finishing Up

Osso Buco is a true culinary masterpiece, embodying the essence of Italian comfort food with every tender bite. Its rich flavors and tender texture are a testament to the artistry and heritage of Italian cooking. Traditionally made with braised veal shanks, this dish has transcended borders and become a cherished delight worldwide.

So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that marries tradition with taste, consider Osso Buco. It’s an Italian classic that embodies the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of shared meals. Its rich flavors and versatility ensure a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. Making it a timeless favourite for generations to come.

Now it’s your turn to cook this bowl of delicious! Let me know how you go! If you like this then you will certainly like my lamb stew dish. It’s another slow cooked delight. Or try my butter chicken for something a little spicier. If you are stuck for ideas try hotdogs or Fettucine Bolognese, they are a couple of real bangers.

Darrin x