– Country: Italy
– Region/Province: Northern Italy (Milan)
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 2 hours
– Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Medium
Health Benefits
– Bone Health: The marrow in the veal shanks is a good source of collagen and other
nutrients.
– Immune Support: A hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold day.
– Weight Management: A satisfying and flavorful meal that is also low in calories.
Dietary Categories
– ✅ Gluten-free, Dairy-free
– ❌ Contains meat.
Nutritional Highlights (per serving)
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 40g
– Fiber: 5g
– Key Nutrients: Collagen, Vitamin A, Vitamin C
Ingredients (with quantities)
– 4 (1-inch-thick) veal shanks
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– For the gremolata:
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp lemon zest

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Dredge the veal shanks in the flour.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the veal shanks
on all sides. Remove the veal shanks from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
6. Pour in the white wine and cook until it has reduced by half.
7. Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to
taste.
8. Return the veal shanks to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the
oven. Braise for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
9. While the osso buco is cooking, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, combine the
parsley, lemon zest, and garlic.
10. Serve the osso buco hot, topped with the gremolata.
Chef's Healthy Modifications
– Original ingredient → Healthier substitute: Using a lean cut of veal and trimming any
excess fat makes this dish healthier.
– Cooking method change for health: Braising is a healthy cooking method that requires
very little added fat.
– Portion/serving suggestions: Serve with a side of polenta or risotto.
Cultural Context
Osso Buco is a classic Milanese dish of braised veal shanks. The name means "bone with a
hole," which refers to the marrow-filled bone at the center of the veal shank. It is a hearty and
flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion. This healthy osso buco is a delicious and
nutritious way to enjoy this classic Italian dish.