Slow Cooker Osso Bucco: A Hearty Italian Classic

Osso Bucco, a classic Italian dish, translates to "bone with a hole," referring to the marrow-filled bone that's the centerpiece of this delightful recipe. Traditionally made with veal shanks, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with rich flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this Slow Cooker Osso Bucco is both effortless and impressive. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience that will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients

• 4 veal shanks (about 2 inches thick, approximately 1.5 lbs / 680 g total)
• 1 cup (240 ml) of all-purpose flour for dusting
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 150 g)
• 2 carrots, diced (about 150 g)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 100 g)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) of dry white wine
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240 ml) of beef broth
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) of dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Veal: Pat the veal shanks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Dust each piece lightly with flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Sear the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the veal shanks and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared veal shanks to the slow cooker. Add the sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
6. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat should be very tender and easily pull away from the bone.
7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Serve the Osso Bucco hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon zest if desired. Pair it with risotto, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use another type of meat for Osso Bucco?

Yes! While traditional Osso Bucco is made with veal, you can also use beef or pork shanks. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze Osso Bucco for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What can I serve with Osso Bucco?

Osso Bucco pairs beautifully with creamy risotto, mashed potatoes, or polenta. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad complements the richness of the dish.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Osso Bucco tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

5. Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

While Osso Bucco is traditionally a meat dish, you can create a vegetarian version using large portobello mushrooms or eggplant. Substitute the broth with vegetable broth and cook the vegetables as you would in the recipe.

Now that you have this easy and comforting Slow Cooker Osso Bucco recipe, gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home. Bon Appétit!