This slow-braised beef osso buco is a comforting, restaurant-quality dish featuring tender beef shanks, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato gravy. Slow cooking allows the meat to become incredibly soft while the sauce develops a deep, savory flavor. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta for a satisfying family dinner.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2½–3 hours
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4–5 people
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 4–5 beef shanks, approximately 3–4 lb (1.4–1.8 kg)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging (optional)
For the Sauce
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14–15 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine or additional beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional Gremolata
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
Step-by-Step Preparation
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