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Easy Osso Buco Recipe

Easy Osso Buco Recipe

Rebecca
When I first made this Easy Osso Buco recipe, I was nervous about tackling such a revered Italian dish. But to my surprise, it turned out beautifully, and now it’s one of my favorites to make for family and friends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course lunch
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 veal or beef shanks
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Optional gremolata parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by tying each shank with kitchen twine to keep the meat intact during cooking. Generously season all sides with salt and black pepper.
  • Coat the seasoned shanks in flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps create a crispy, golden crust.
  • Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high. Sear the shanks on all sides until browned (around 6–7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  • Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (the classic “sofrito” base) to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for another 30 seconds.
  • Pour in wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to lift up the flavorful browned bits. After a quick simmer, add the crushed tomatoes, broth, bay leaves, thyme, and lemon zest.
  • Return the shanks to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 2–2.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t dry out. Add broth if needed.
  • Once fork-tender, remove the shanks and discard the twine. Serve the meat with the sauce spooned on top, and sprinkle gremolata for a fresh, zesty finish.

Notes

  • Don’t Skip Searing: This step locks in moisture and adds a deep, savory flavor to the meat.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Zest: It brightens up the sauce and balances out the richness.
  • Check Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick during simmering, add a splash of broth to loosen it.
  • Low and Slow Cooking: Patience is key to achieving tender, falling-apart meat.
Keyword Easy Osso Buco Recipe