There’s something magical about a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. Milanese Osso Buco is just that—a comforting, flavorful masterpiece that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply want a satisfying meal after a long day, this slow-cooked delight is your answer. The tender veal shanks simmering in a rich sauce create an aroma that fills your home with warmth. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Milanese Osso Buco
This Milanese Osso Buco is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The beauty lies in its simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the slow-cooking process means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying time with family and friends while the magic happens in the oven.
Ingredients for Milanese Osso Buco
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable Milanese Osso Buco. Here’s what you’ll need:
Veal shanks: The star of the dish, these meaty cuts are rich and flavorful. Look for pieces that are about 1.5 inches thick for optimal tenderness.
All-purpose flour: This helps create a lovely crust on the veal shanks when browned. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
Olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds depth and richness to the dish. It’s perfect for browning the shanks.
Onion, carrot, and celery: These aromatic vegetables form the base of the sauce, adding sweetness and complexity. Together, they create a classic mirepoix.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Dry white wine: This adds acidity and depth to the sauce. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking, as it will enhance the overall flavor.
Beef broth: A rich broth is crucial for a hearty sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought, but opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Diced tomatoes: These add a touch of sweetness and acidity. Make sure to drain them to avoid excess liquid in your dish.
Dried thyme and bay leaf: These herbs infuse the dish with earthy flavors. They’re essential for that authentic Italian taste.
Lemon zest: A bright finish that cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing note.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is a lovely garnish that adds color and a fresh flavor to the final dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Milanese Osso Buco
Creating Milanese Osso Buco is a rewarding journey that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that impresses everyone at the table.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This temperature is perfect for slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the veal becomes tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Veal Shanks
Next, pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a delicious crust when you brown them.
Step 3: Brown the Veal Shanks
In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the veal shanks, browning them on all sides for about 8-10 minutes. This step locks in the flavors and gives the meat a beautiful color. Remove the shanks and set them aside.
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Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they soften, about 5 minutes. This mixture, known as mirepoix, forms the flavorful base of your sauce.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. This step is essential as it lifts all those tasty browned bits, adding depth to your sauce. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned veal shanks to the pot. Now, add the beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together, then season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Slow Cook in the Oven
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it cook for 2 to 2.5 hours. The slow cooking will make the meat incredibly tender and allow the flavors to develop fully.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Discard the bay leaf, then stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley. This final touch brightens the dish and adds a fresh flavor. Serve your Milanese Osso Buco hot, and watch everyone enjoy every last bite!
Tips for Success
Always pat the veal shanks dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth to the flavor.
Feel free to add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer sauce.
For a thicker sauce, reduce it on the stovetop after cooking.
Pair with risotto or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Equipment Needed
Heavy pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking. A slow cooker can be a great alternative.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the pot.
Meat thermometer: Useful for checking doneness, though not necessary for this recipe.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping your vegetables and veal shanks.
Variations
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Wine Alternatives: Use red wine instead of white for a richer sauce, or opt for a non-alcoholic wine for a family-friendly version.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for dredging the veal shanks.
Slow Cooker Method: Prepare the dish in a slow cooker for an even more hands-off approach; just follow the same steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Risotto: Creamy risotto pairs beautifully, soaking up the rich sauce.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of fresh bread for dipping.
Wine: A glass of dry white wine complements the dish perfectly.
Garnish: Add extra parsley for a pop of color on the plate.
FAQs about Milanese Osso Buco
What is Milanese Osso Buco?
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Milanese Osso Buco is a traditional Italian dish made with veal shanks that are slow-cooked in a rich sauce. The meat becomes incredibly tender, and the marrow in the bone adds a unique flavor and richness to the dish.
Can I use other meats instead of veal?
Absolutely! While veal is traditional, you can substitute with pork or even chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the meat you choose.
How do I store leftovers of Milanese Osso Buco?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I make Milanese Osso Buco ahead of time?
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Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it gently on the stove. Just be sure to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What should I serve with Milanese Osso Buco?
For a complete meal, serve it with creamy risotto, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad can also add a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Milanese Osso Buco is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The rich aroma wafting through your home invites everyone to gather around the table, eager to share in the experience. Each tender bite of veal, infused with the flavors of wine and herbs, transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen. This dish is perfect for both special occasions and casual family dinners. As you savor the last morsels, you’ll realize that the joy of cooking lies not just in the food, but in the love and laughter shared with those you cherish.
Milanese Osso Buco is a flavorful comfort dish made with veal shanks, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds veal shanks, cut into 1.5-inch thick slices
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium celery stalk, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the veal shanks and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the shanks and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Return the veal shanks to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.
Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon zest and parsley before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste when sautéing the vegetables.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the veal shanks once cooked and reduce the sauce on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Serve with risotto or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
