Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Osso Buco Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only comforting but also impressively flavorful, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Osso Buco recipe. The tender veal shanks practically melt in your mouth, and the rich sauce is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners.
I adore how effortlessly it comes together; just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. Plus, the aroma wafting through your home will have everyone excitedly anticipating dinner.
It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Osso Buco
When it comes to crafting a dish that feels both luxurious and homey, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Osso Buco are key. Each component plays a role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture and robust flavor that makes this dish stand out. You might think it sounds fancy, but trust me, the ingredient list is quite manageable. Let’s break it down so you can gather everything you need for a cozy night in.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 veal shanks, 1-1/2 to 2-inch-thick (about 2-1/2 lbs.)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 small red onion, chopped (about 1-1/2 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 5 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated
- 1 large garlic clove, minced (about 1 tsp.)
Now, let’s talk about a couple of considerations when it comes to these ingredients. First off, veal shanks can be a bit pricey, so if you’re on a budget, you could substitute with beef shanks or even pork, though it won’t quite capture the same delicate flavor.
And if you’re not a fan of white wine, you could swap it out for more chicken broth, but that might take away some of the depth. Plus, fresh thyme is a lovely touch, but if you only have dried thyme on hand, don’t fret—just use about a third of the amount.
Cooking is about adapting, after all! So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these ingredients are your ticket to a delightful meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Make Slow Cooker Osso Buco
Making Slow Cooker Osso Buco is easier than you might think, and it’s all about layering flavors while letting that slow cooker do most of the heavy lifting.
First things first, grab 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and a shallow dish. Season your 4 veal shanks, which should each be about 1-1/2 to 2 inches thick, generously with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. Dredge those shanks in the flour, shaking off the excess—no one likes a clumpy coating.
Now, if you want to be fancy, you can tie them up with a piece of twine to keep them together while they cook. But hey, I’ve made it without the twine and lived to tell the tale.
Next up, heat a 12-inch skillet over medium heat and toss in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once that butter starts to foam and smell divine, add the veal shanks. Sear them until they’re golden brown, turning once—this should take about 10 minutes.
Once they’re ready, transfer them to your slow cooker. Now, pour 1 cup of dry white wine into that same skillet, scraping up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Don’t skip this step; it’s where a lot of flavor hangs out.
Pour all of this glorious goodness into the slow cooker, then add in a 14-1/2 ounce can of diced tomatoes (juice and all), 3/4 cup of low sodium chicken broth, and your chopped veggies: 1 small red onion (about 1-1/2 cups), 1/2 cup of carrot rounds, and 1/2 cup of chopped celery. Toss in 5 sprigs of fresh thyme, cover it up, and let the slow cooker work its magic on low for 6 to 8 hours.
The meat should be so tender it practically falls off the bone, and you might just find yourself dreaming about it all day.
When it’s finally time to eat, carefully transfer the shanks to a platter and keep them warm under foil. Now, pour the sauce from the slow cooker into a large skillet and simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to about 2 cups—this usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. While that’s happening, whip up a quick gremolata by mixing 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest, and 1 large minced garlic clove in a small bowl.
This fresh garnish will add a lovely zing to your dish. Serve those succulent veal shanks topped with the sauce and a sprinkle of gremolata. Trust me, it’ll feel like a celebration on your dinner table, and you might just impress yourself with how effortlessly you created such a delightful dish.
Slow Cooker Osso Buco Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting a delicious Slow Cooker Osso Buco, it’s time to explore some substitutions and variations that can elevate your dish even further.
If you can’t find veal shanks, try using pork or beef shanks for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, swap out the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano. If you’re in the mood for a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
These simple tweaks can make your Osso Buco uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Osso Buco
Osso Buco, with its rich flavors and tender meat, deserves sides that complement its deliciousness.
I love serving it with creamy polenta or risotto, as they soak up the sauce beautifully. A fresh arugula salad adds a peppery crunch that balances the dish perfectly.
Garlic bread is another favorite of mine, ideal for mopping up that flavorful sauce. If you want something lighter, steamed green beans or sautéed spinach provide a nice contrast.
Ultimately, I aim for sides that enhance the overall experience, allowing the osso buco to shine while offering a variety of textures and flavors on the plate.
Additional Tips & Notes
A few extra tips can elevate your Slow Cooker Osso Buco to new heights.
First, don’t skip browning the shanks; it adds great flavor. If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
I also love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For a fresh touch, serve with a side of creamy polenta or risotto.
Finally, let leftovers cool completely before storing; they’ll taste even better the next day!
Enjoy experimenting with herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for added depth.
Happy cooking!