Osso Buco with Saffron Risotto (Risotto Milanese)

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Recipe Intro From Heresyourbite

Create a classic Italian meal with Osso Buco served alongside creamy saffron risotto, also known as risotto milanese, made with RiceSelect Arborio Rice. This dish features tender, braised veal shanks cooked with a medley of vegetables, white wine, and broth, paired with luxurious saffron-infused risotto. A final touch of lemony gremolata adds fresh, vibrant flavor to this comforting and elegant dish.

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  • Recipe Card
Prep time: 30mins
Cook time: 3hrs
Serves or Makes: 4-6 servings

Recipe Card

ingredients

For the Osso Buco

  • 3 (or 4 smaller) veal shanks (about 2 inches thick)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 to 2 small or medium carrots, chopped into 1/4-1/2 inch cubes
  • 1 to 2 small or medium celery stalks, chopped into 1/4-1/2 inch cubes
  • 4 to 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary

ingredients

For the Gremolata

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

ingredients

For the Saffron Risotto (Risotto Milanese)

  • 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 cups chicken broth, adjusted as needed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups RiceSelect Arborio Rice
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese, adjusted to taste
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

To make the osso buco:

  • Step 1

    Remove veal shanks from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature (about 30 minutes).

  • Step 2

    Season the shanks with salt and pepper, and lightly dust them with flour, shaking off the excess.

  • Step 3

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Brown the veal shanks on all sides (about 10 minutes total). Remove and set aside.

  • Step 4

    In the same pot, sauté diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic until softened (5-7 minutes).

  • Step 5

    Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

  • Step 6

    Add white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce.

  • Step 7

    Pour in beef broth and return veal shanks to the pot. Add bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer on low heat for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

  • Step 8

    Remove the shanks and cover with foil. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

To make the the gremolata:

  • Step 1

    In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, garlic, and parsley. Set aside.

To make the saffron risotto (risotto milanese):

  • Step 1

    In a saucepan, warm chicken broth over low heat.

  • Step 2

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).

  • Step 3

    Stir in RiceSelect Arborio Rice to coat in oil, toasting for 2-3 minutes.

  • Step 4

    Pour in white wine and saffron threads. Stir until wine is mostly absorbed.

  • Step 5

    Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is absorbed before adding more. Continue until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 20-25 minutes).

  • Step 6

    Remove from heat and stir in butter and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

To serve:

  • Step 1

    Serve a generous portion of Risotto Milanese topped with braised veal shanks. Drizzle with the braising sauce and garnish with gremolata for added brightness and enjoy.