People think of a hearty and flavorful meal, but did you know that there’s actually a part of the cow called Osso Bucco? This delicious dish is made of slow-roasted cow shank meat, which has been popular as it could satisfy and fill your stomach.

If you want to know what makes this dish so special, read the details below!

What Part Of The Cow Is Osso Bucco?

Osso Bucco is from the shank, which is the lower leg of the cow. It’s packed with connective tissues which is breaks down when cooked over several hours. That’s why braising is such a popular cooking method for Osso Bucco.

Have you ever wondered what makes Osso Bucco different from other cuts of beef and why it’s popular? Keep on reading to know more.

What Is The Translation Of Osso Buco?

The name Osso Bucco is an Italian word Ossobuco with a direct translation of “bone with a hole” (whereas osso is “bone” and buco is “hole”). This refers to the marrow-filled center of the veal shank.

In Australia, Osso Bucco is a term that has commonly referred the shank of a cow. However, what most people don’t know is that there are two parts of shanks in a cow. 

They are the foreshank (the front legs) and the hind shank (the back legs). Both foreshank and hind shank can be cut and sold as Osso Bucco. The hind shank has more fat than the foreshank, making it taste better. 

Is Osso Bucco The Same As Oxtail?

Osso Bucco is not the same as oxtail. Oxtail is actually the tail of a cow, whereas Osso Bucco is from the shank (lower leg). 

For example, if you were cooking Osso Bucco, you would probably use a slow cooker to keep the meat moist while it cooks. You could also sear the meat first before braising it for a long time. However, if you were cooking oxtails, you would usually braise them.

Both cuts of meat are tough and need to be cooked slowly to become to fully break down all the connective tissues and collagen.

In terms of taste, they are both subtly different. Osso Bucco is milder and more delicate, while oxtail is richer and more intense. Both dishes are usually served in soups, stews, and braises, but each one has its own unique flavor.

Do You Eat Marrow In Osso Bucco?

Some people choose to remove the marrow before eating Osso Bucco, but it’s perfectly safe to eat if you want to experience the full flavor of the dish. 

The marrow in Osso Bucco packs a savoury punch and makes the meat part flavorful when cooked with other ingredients.

In most restaurants, you can request to have it removed before serving if you do not want it.

Is Osso Bucco Beef Shank?

Osso Bucco is from a beef shank which is a cross-cut of meat that comes from the lower leg of the cow. Beef Osso Busso also contains a bone with marrow in the center. 

While you can make Osso Bucco with either veal or beef, it is more common to use beef because it is widely available and less expensive than veal. Beef also has a more intense flavor. 

What Is Special About Osso Bucco?

Osso Bucco is a special cut of beef that has a lot of connective tissues and is rich in bone marrow. This gives it its signature richness and mouthfeel that sets it apart from other cuts of beef.

Osso Bucco can be served in many different ways. It is commonly braised with vegetables and white wine, but it can also be grilled, roasted, or stewed. No matter how you cook it, Osso Bucco is a delicious and hearty meal that will satisfy any appetite.

Is Osso Bucco Expensive?

Osso Bucco is not expensive but its price can vary greatly depending on where you purchase it. Not all butchers may stock Osso Bucco which means you may need to get it from a high-end grocery store which will likely be more expensive than purchasing it from a local butcher. 

Want To Cook The Best Tasting Osso Bucco?

One great way cook Osso Bucco is low and slow on a Z Grill BBQ. Unlike other grills, the Z Grill is wood-fueled BBQ which gives whatever you’re cooking a wood-fired flavour that you simply can’t get when braising it over the stove or in an oven. 

If you’re looking for a barbecue that is easy to use and doesn’t compromise on flavour, then you might want to consider checking out a Z Grill.

If you want to learn more about our Z Grill BBQs, don’t hesitate to give us a call or chat with us.