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Best Osso Buco

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This classic Italian osso buco uses pancetta instead of olive oil for enhanced flavor. The slow-braised veal shanks become tender and flavorful, finished with bright gremolata.

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Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 11 May 2025 20:57:43 GMT
A white dish contains three seared meat pieces topped with parsley and garlic, surrounded by carrots and a savory broth. Pin it
A white dish contains three seared meat pieces topped with parsley and garlic, surrounded by carrots and a savory broth. | zestplate.com
    Looking to nail the ultimate Osso Buco at home? Through tons of kitchen experiments, I've cracked the code on this homemade dish that's actually super doable. This Italian treasure turns veal shanks incredibly soft and juicy, nestled in a hearty sauce that'll make your taste buds dance with joy.

What's In A Name

    My straightforward Osso Buco keeps it authentic - the name literally means "bone with a hole," and that hole's got the good stuff! As everything simmers away, the marrow slowly melts into your sauce, creating something so yummy you'll want to clean those bones completely.

Kitchen Wizardry

    This homemade creation begins with a clever swap - using pancetta to brown the meat instead of regular oil. The trick to this no-fuss Osso Buco is building flavor gradually. After browning the meat, throw those veggies right in to soak up all the tasty bits left behind. Finish with fresh gremolata sprinkled on top for that extra zing.

Try Different Meats

    Though classic Osso Buco calls for veal, I've successfully used beef, pork, and even lamb shanks. For the best homemade version, always grab center-cut shanks. Each type of meat brings its own unique flavor, but they all end up mouthwateringly tender with this cooking method.

Cook It Early

    The coolest thing about this simple Osso Buco? It tastes even better the next day! Make your homemade version ahead of time - the flavors get so much richer overnight. Just warm it up slowly with a bit of stock before serving. It's perfect when you don't want kitchen stress with guests around!

Great Side Dishes

    Every Osso Buco needs something good alongside it. That wonderful sauce pairs amazingly with smooth polenta, but don't be afraid to try it with mushroom risotto or garlicky mashed potatoes too. Basically, any side that can soak up the incredible sauce from your homemade creation works great.
A close-up of bone marrow dishes garnished with chopped herbs, diced vegetables, and served in a rich, savory broth. Pin it
A close-up of bone marrow dishes garnished with chopped herbs, diced vegetables, and served in a rich, savory broth. | zestplate.com

Leftovers Magic

    Got extra of this easy Osso Buco? Don't worry, it freezes really well! Let your homemade dish cool all the way down, then freeze for up to three months. When you're ready, thaw it overnight and warm it slowly with some extra stock until it's hot and tender again.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What does osso buco mean?

"Hole of bone," referring to the marrow inside the shank.

→ Can I substitute the meat?

Yes, use beef, lamb, pork or moose shanks.

→ Can I make it ahead?

Yes, tastes even better next day. Reheat gently at 325°F.

→ What should I serve with it?

Polenta, risotto, mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice.

→ Can I freeze it?

Yes, up to 3 months in airtight container.

Best Osso Buco

A rich Italian braised veal shank dish featuring pancetta for extra flavor. Perfect for special occasions.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
150 Minutes
Total Time
180 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 6 Servings (1)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 Veal shanks.
02 Pancetta (or olive oil).
03 Vegetables (onion, carrot, celery).
04 White wine.
05 Stock.
06 Herbs.
07 Gremolata:.
08 Parsley.
09 Lemon zest.
10 Garlic.

Instructions

Step 01

Brown pancetta in Dutch oven.

Step 02

Sear veal shanks until browned.

Step 03

Cook vegetables in pancetta fat.

Step 04

Add wine and stock, braise until tender.

Step 05

Prepare gremolata garnish.

Step 06

Serve hot with gremolata.

Notes

  1. Use marrow spoon if available.
  2. Can make ahead - better next day.
  3. Don't skip the gremolata.
  4. Freezes well up to 3 months.

Tools You'll Need

  • Dutch oven.
  • Marrow spoon (optional).
  • Sharp knife.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • None.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: ~
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~