Ossobuco
Ossobuco features tender veal shanks braised in a rich tomato and white wine sauce with aromatic vegetables, perfect for hearty, comforting meals suited for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the celery, carrot, onion, and anchovy fillets.
- Melt butter in a heavy pan.
- Flour the veal shanks and brown both sides.
- Add the white wine and reduce.
- Add chopped celery, onion, carrot, and anchovy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook until golden and add canned peeled tomatoes. Cover, lower heat, and cook for about 1.5 hours or until tender, adding chicken stock when necessary.
- A few minutes before cooking is complete, add chopped garlic, parsley, and lemon zest to taste.
- Transfer to a serving platter.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef shanks or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar. If you want a lighter version, use chicken or turkey shanks. Ensure your veal shanks are well-floured to create a nice crust while browning. You can also substitute the dry white wine with chicken stock or a splash of vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
Serving Suggestions
Ossobuco pairs beautifully with risotto, polenta, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with Italian recipes like Italian Egg Soup (Zuppa Pavese) as a starter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to keep the dish moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ossobuco contains roughly 421 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for ossobuco?
Yes, while traditional ossobuco is made with veal shanks, you can substitute with lamb or pork shanks for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, since different meats may require varying lengths of time to become tender.
What can I serve with ossobuco?
Ossobuco is traditionally served with gremolata, a mix of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley. It also pairs well with creamy polenta, risotto, or mashed potatoes. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can complement the dish beautifully.
How do I know when the ossobuco is done cooking?
The ossobuco is done when the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone, typically after about 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking. You can also check if the marrow in the bone is soft and has started to ooze out, indicating that it's ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).