Hearty Beef Shanks Osso Bucco for Family Dinners
45
min
449
Calories
27g
Fats
0g
Carbs
31g
Protein
This mouth-watering Beef Shanks Osso Bucco recipe is perfect for a wholesome family dinner. Packed with flavors and easy to make, it's a delight for both the cook and the diners!
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepare the Bouquet Garni
Start this heartwarming meal by creating your own bouquet garni. Place a sprig of rosemary, thyme, a bay leaf, and a few cloves into a piece of cheesecloth. Tie it securely with twine. This little bundle of herbs will infuse your Beef Shanks with an abundance of flavor without leaving bits of herbs scattered throughout your dish. It’s like a little spa treatment for your meat!
Pro Tip: No cheesecloth? No problem! Use a coffee filter tied with kitchen twine as a nifty substitute.
Step 2: Brown the Beef Shanks
To get the beef shanks ready for their long, slow simmer, give them a quick sear. This step is crucial for locking in those juices and giving the meat a rich, caramelized flavor that’s to die for. Use kitchen twine to tie the shanks to keep the meat attached to the bone during cooking, season generously, dredge in flour, and then brown in a hot pan with a bit of oil. The aroma at this stage is already tempting!
Pro Tip: Ensure your shanks are dry before browning; pat them down with paper towels for the perfect sear.
Step 3: Vegetables and Saute
After browning the shanks, set them aside and focus on the pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sprinkling with a little salt to draw out the moisture. This is where the foundation of your sauce begins, with each vegetable contributing its unique flavor. Saute until they're soft and translucent, creating a perfect backdrop for the rich beef.
Pro Tip: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 4: Simmer with Love
With your vegetables ready, stir in the tomato paste, return the beef shanks to the pot, and pour in a generous cup of white wine. Let the liquid reduce by half before adding your bouquet garni and chicken stock. Once it boils, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently. This slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the sauce to thicken into a glorious, robust gravy.
Pro Tip: Check periodically to ensure there’s enough liquid and the beef isn’t sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your beef shanks are tender and practically falling off the bone, it’s time for the finishing touches. Remove the kitchen twine and the bouquet garni, place the shanks on a platter, and pour over all the luscious sauce from the pot. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a bit of lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. So, gather your loved ones around the table and dive into this comforting, soul-satisfying dish.
Pro Tip: Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up that delicious sauce!
