🥩 What is ossobuco – beef shank with bone?
Beef shank with bone, also known as ossobuco, is meat from the lower part of the beef leg, which, thanks to its high content of collagen and bone marrow, is ideal for slow braising. When properly prepared, it becomes incredibly juicy, tender, and full of deep flavor. Ossobuco is one of the most popular classic Italian delicacies, loved by gourmets worldwide.
✅ Perfect for slow braising and simmering
✅ Soft, juicy, and rich in natural collagen
✅ A traditional ingredient in Italian cuisine – indispensable in ossobuco alla milanese
✅ Pairs well with wine, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs
✅ A source of healthy bone marrow and complete protein
Ossobuco's Nutritional Values
Beef shank with bone is not only a culinary feast but also a valuable source of protein, iron, and healthy fats. Thanks to the presence of bone marrow, it also provides collagen, which supports the health of skin, joints, and bones.
How many calories does beef shank with bone have?
In 100 g of beef shank with bone (ossobuco) there is:
- Calories – approx. 180 kcal
- Protein – 19 g
- Fat – 11 g
- Collagen and gelatin – high content
- Iron – approx. 2.6 mg
- Calcium and phosphorus – support bone health
Health Benefits of Ossobuco
- A rich source of collagen, which supports joint, skin, and hair health.
- Provides complete protein, essential for muscle building.
- Contains natural healthy fats, beneficial for the nervous system.
- Rich in iron and B vitamins, supporting red blood cell production.
- Thanks to bone marrow, boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Fun Facts About Ossobuco
1️⃣ In Italian, “ossobuco” means “bone with a hole”, referring to the central part of the meat, where the flavorful marrow is found.
2️⃣ Ossobuco alla milanese is one of the most traditional Italian dishes, often served with risotto alla milanese, a saffron risotto.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can ossobuco be cooked in a pressure cooker?
Yes, although traditionally it's slow-braised, a pressure cooker can reduce cooking time by half while maintaining the meat's juiciness.
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What wine pairs best with ossobuco?
Italian wines such as Chianti, Barolo, or Amarone are ideal, as they pair well with the rich flavor of the meat.
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Can ossobuco be frozen?
Yes, beef shank is excellent for freezing, both raw and cooked.
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What spices best enhance the flavor of ossobuco?
Garlic, rosemary, thyme, bay leaf, and lemon zest are classics that enhance the natural flavor of the meat and sauce.
Recipe for Ossobuco alla Milanese – A Classic of Italian Cuisine
Traditional Italian dish, The secret is slow-cooking the meat in a flavorful sauce based on wine, tomatoes, and vegetables. Juicy and tender ossobuco pairs perfectly with risotto alla milanese.
Preparation time: 20 min
Cooking time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty level: Medium
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of ossobuco (beef shank with bone)
- 2 carrots, 1 onion, 2 stalks of celery
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of white wine
- 400 g of chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Lemon zest, parsley (for gremolata)
- Salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme
Preparation:
- Sauté the ossobuco in olive oil until golden.
- Sauté the vegetables (onion, carrot, celery) in butter.
- Add garlic, herbs, tomatoes, and white wine.
- Cover with broth and simmer covered for 2-2.5 hours over low heat.
- Serve with gremolata (chopped parsley, garlic, and lemon zest).
💡 Tip: Best enjoyed the next day when the flavors have melded!
🛒 Summary – why buy ossobuco?
Beef shank with bone is meat made for slow cooking, full of flavor and nutrients. With the presence of bone marrow and collagen, ossobuco gains exceptional depth and tenderness. It’s a perfect choice for lovers of Italian cuisine and fans of slow-cooked dishes.
✅ Ideal for braising and slow cooking
✅ Rich in collagen and healthy fats
✅ A classic ingredient in Italian dishes
✅ Full of flavor, juicy, and aromatic
Don’t wait – order ossobuco and experience the taste of true Italian cuisine! 🇮🇹🥩