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What kind of recipe is it?
Turkey Osso Buco is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dish, showcasing succulent turkey shanks braised to perfection.
This hearty recipe is characterized by its rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by aromatic herbs and vegetables.
It’s an ideal choice for home cooks looking to impress family and friends with a comforting yet sophisticated meal.
Perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings, this dish appeals to anyone who appreciates bold flavors and a touch of culinary creativity in their cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Turkey shanks | 4 pieces (about 2-3 pounds total) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium, finely diced |
| Carrots | 2 medium, diced |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 ounces) |
| Chicken or turkey broth | 2 cups |
| White wine | 1 cup (optional) |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon, chopped |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 teaspoon, chopped |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish (optional) |
This is a thorough list of the ingredients you’ll need to create a delicious Turkey Osso Buco. Verify you have all the ingredients prepared before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience.
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 160 °C (325 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat (approx. 190 °C / 375 °F).
- Season the turkey shanks with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear for about 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add 1 medium finely diced onion, 2 diced medium carrots, and 2 diced stalks of celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Integrate 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, stirring to combine thoroughly for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. Let it reduce for 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 can (410 g) of diced tomatoes, 2 cups (480 ml) of chicken or turkey broth, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary, and 2 bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the turkey shanks to the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the turkey is fork-tender (internal temperature should reach 74 °C / 165 °F).
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld further.
- Discard the bay leaves and taste the liquid for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
- To serve, plate each turkey shank and spoon the sauce over the top, garnishing with 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and fresh parsley if desired.
- Optionally, let any leftover osso buco cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating, ensuring airtight storage.
- Before serving leftovers, reheat in the oven at 160 °C (325 °F) for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through (internal temperature of 74 °C / 165 °F).
- Enjoy the Turkey Osso Buco with your choice of side, such as polenta or crusty bread, for a hearty meal.
Variations
- Herb-Infused Osso Buco: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil to the sauce for a fresh, herbal flavor boost.
- Mushroom & Barley Osso Buco: Swap turkey shanks for 500 g (1 lb) of portobello or cremini mushrooms and stir in 1 cup (180 g) of pearl barley to create a hearty, vegetarian version.
- Citrus & Olive Osso Buco: Include the zest and juice of 1 orange and substitute some broth with 1 cup (240 ml) of chicken or turkey stock for a sweet and zesty twist.
- Spicy Chorizo Osso Buco: Add 200 g (7 oz) of sliced chorizo sausage when sautéing the vegetables for a smoky, spicy kick and enhance the flavor profile.
Tips on plating and presentation
While I love a delicious turkey osso buco, how you present it can make it even more enticing.
For an impressive plate, start with a vibrant bed of creamy polenta or risotto. Place the osso buco artfully on top, then drizzle the rich wine sauce over it.
Garnish with fresh herbs, and don’t forget a sprinkle of citrus zest for brightness. Enjoy the visual feast!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
What do you think pairs well with a hearty turkey osso buco? I love serving it with creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
Roasted root vegetables add a comforting touch, while a fresh arugula salad brings a nice contrast. You can’t go wrong with garlic bread, either—perfect for mopping up every last bit of that rich flavor!
What drinks can I pair it with?
How can you elevate your turkey osso buco experience even further?
I love pairing it with a rich, full-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barolo. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio works well too.
For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider adds a festive touch.
Trust me, these drinks enhance the dish beautifully!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Turkey for This Recipe?
I’ve used veal, pork, and even chicken in this recipe. Each option brings a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment and find what you love best. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
How Long Does Leftover Turkey Osso Buco Last in the Refrigerator?
Leftover turkey osso buco lasts about three to four days in the refrigerator. I always store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh, and it’s great for quick meals later on!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time and Reheat It?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later. I often prep it a day in advance; it allows the flavors to meld, making it taste even better when served.
Is Osso Buco Traditionally Served With Gremolata?
Yes, osso buco is traditionally served with gremolata. I love how the fresh herbs and citrus zest enhance the dish, bringing brightness to the rich flavors. It’s a must-have for true authenticity!
What Type of Wine Is Best for Cooking Osso Buco?
I find that a dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio or a robust red, such as Chianti, works wonders for cooking osso buco. It enhances the flavors beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish.