Slow Cooker Osso Buco
Osso buco is an Italian braise traditionally made with veal shanks. Bison osso buco is equally tender and deeply flavorful, and it's easier than you might think.
Use a slow cooker to do most of the work while you multitask in your day. Serve it over creamy polenta, smooth pasta, or cauliflower rice. Spoon the braising liquid over everything.
Ingredients
4 bison osso buco (cross-cut shanks)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the osso buco with salt and pepper on both sides.
Brown the shanks in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, working in batches if needed. Transfer to slow cooker.
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring well and cooking for 1 minute.
Stir in beef broth and thyme, then pour the mixture over the osso buco in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Serve with polenta, pasta, or cauliflower rice and spoon the braising liquid over top.
The Shank Cut
A cross-cut shank, which means there’s a bone running through the middle with marrow inside, is what makes osso buco special. As it braises, the marrow softens and adds richness to the braising liquid.
Restaurant Quality at Home
This dish looks fancy but is completely approachable. It's perfect for celebrating a special night at home!
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More Bison Recipes
Browse our full recipe collection for slow cooker meals, grilled options, and family favorites. Each recipe honors the kinship between our land, our Buffalo relatives, and your table.
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