How to Make Pork Osso Buco at Home

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When you think of Italian cuisine, certain dishes might immediately come to mind—pasta, pizza, tiramisu. But if you’re looking to impress with something a bit more unique, yet still deeply rooted in Italian tradition, allow me to introduce you to Pork Osso Buco.

While the classic version uses veal shanks, this pork alternative is just as flavorful, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

What is Osso Buco?

The name “Osso Buco” literally translates to “bone with a hole” in Italian, referring to the marrow-filled shank bone that is traditionally used in this dish. Osso Buco originates from the Lombardy region in northern Italy and is typically made with veal shanks that are braised slowly in a rich sauce of wine, broth, vegetables, and tomatoes.

pork osso buco

Over time, variations of this dish have emerged, and Pork Osso Buco has become a popular twist, offering a more budget-friendly yet equally delicious option. The pork shank is perfect for this dish, as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after a slow cook.

Why Choose Pork Osso Buco?

If you’re wondering why you might opt for pork over the traditional veal, there are a few compelling reasons. First, pork shanks are generally easier to find at your local butcher or grocery store.

pork osso buco

They’re also more affordable, making this dish a bit more accessible for everyday cooking. Pork has a slightly sweeter and richer flavor, which pairs beautifully with the citrusy and herbaceous notes in a classic Osso Buco sauce.

A Delicious Twist on Tradition: How to Make Pork Osso Buco at Home
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A Delicious Twist on Tradition: How to Make Pork Osso Buco at Home

Recipe by arwynnCourse: Uncategorized
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

2

hours 

30

minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Pork Osso Buco:

  • 4 pork shanks (about 1.5-2 inches thick)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 carrots, finely chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup dry white wine

  • 1 cup chicken or beef broth

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary

  • 1 sprig fresh thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • For the Gremolata (optional but recommended):

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Directions

  • Preparing the Pork Shanks:
    Start by patting the pork shanks dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Next, dredge each shank lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.pork osso buco
  • Browning the Shanks:
    In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork shanks and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Browning the meat is crucial as it builds a deep, rich flavor that will carry through the entire dish. Once browned, remove the shanks from the pot and set them aside.
  • Cooking the Vegetables:
    In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened and just beginning to caramelize, about 7-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Deglazing and Building the Sauce:
    Pour the white wine into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This is where the magic happens—the wine helps to lift all those flavorful bits into the sauce. Allow the wine to reduce by about half, then stir in the broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
  • Braising the Shanks:
    Return the pork shanks to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the shanks braise for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and nearly falling off the bone.
  • Preparing the Gremolata:
    While the pork is braising, you can prepare the gremolata. This simple garnish of parsley, lemon zest, and garlic adds a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich, slow-cooked flavors of the Pork Osso Buco. Simply mix the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic together in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Serving the Pork Osso Buco:
    Once the pork shanks are fully cooked, remove them from the pot and set them on a serving platter. If the sauce seems too thin, you can reduce it further by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes until it thickens to your liking. Remove the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf, and then spoon the sauce generously over the shanks.

Notes

  • For the final touch, sprinkle the gremolata over the top of the pork before serving.

Moreover, pork shanks are incredibly forgiving when it comes to cooking. They require a long, slow braise, which means there’s little risk of overcooking them. This makes Pork Osso Buco an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned home chefs alike.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a mouthwatering Pork Osso Buco, you’ll need the following ingredients:

What to Serve with Pork Osso Buco?

This is traditionally served over a bed of risotto, particularly a saffron-infused risotto known as Risotto alla Milanese. However, you can also serve it with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or even some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

pork osso buco

A simple green salad on the side can provide a fresh contrast to the rich main dish, and a glass of your favorite white or red wine will round out the meal perfectly.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Rush the Braise: The key to a tender Pork Osso Buco is patience. Low and slow is the way to go, so make sure you give the shanks enough time to become tender.
  • Use a Good Quality Wine: Since the wine plays a significant role in the sauce, use one that you would enjoy drinking.
  • Customize Your Gremolata: Feel free to experiment with the gremolata by adding other herbs like basil or mint, or even some grated Parmesan for extra richness.

In Conclusion

Pork Osso Buco is a delightful twist on a traditional Italian dish, offering a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With its tender, flavorful meat and robust sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, next time you’re in the mood to cook something impressive, give a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Happy cooking!

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