Pork OssoBucco is a rich and hearty Italian dish made with tender pork shanks slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
The pork becomes incredibly tender and juicy as it simmers in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the vegetables and herbs. It's an easy-to-make recipe that brings a taste of Italy to your table, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pork OssoBucco recipe works so well because it uses pork shanks, a cut of meat that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when slow-cooked. Searing the shanks before simmering locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor. The combination of tomatoes, carrots, celery, and onions creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the pork. The addition of herbs like thyme and rosemary enhances the overall taste, making each bite a delightful experience.
Another reason to make this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end Italian restaurant. The slow-cooking process allows you to prepare other parts of your meal or relax while the flavors meld together in the oven. Plus, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from creamy polenta to garlic mashed potatoes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Pork Shanks: Tender and flavorful cut with a bone in the center. Substitute: Beef shanks or veal shanks.
Tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness to the sauce. Substitute: Canned crushed tomatoes.
Carrots: Sweet and earthy flavor, adds texture. Substitute: Parsnips or sweet potatoes.
Celery: Adds a fresh, crisp taste. Substitute: Fennel or bell peppers.
Onion: Provides a savory base for the sauce. Substitute: Shallots or leeks.
Tips
- Sear the pork shanks to lock in flavor.
- Use a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method.
- Add a splash of red wine for depth of flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Serve with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve
Pork OssoBucco is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The tender pork shanks simmer in a rich tomato sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Serve over creamy polenta for a traditional Italian pairing.
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Accompany with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Similar Recipes
Pork Osso Bucco
Ingredients
- 4 pork shanks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup red wine optional
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the pork shanks with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shanks on all sides until browned, then remove from the pot.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, red wine (if using), thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the pork shanks to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and falling off the bone.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method.
• Add a splash of red wine for depth of flavor.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• Serve with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.