Name: Instant Pot Osso Buco
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 veal shanks (about 1.5 inches thick); 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 celery stalks, finely chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

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This dish will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched streets of Milan, where the aroma of braised meat dances in the air. Imagine tender veal shanks, simmered to perfection in a rich, savory sauce that envelops your senses like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Instant Pot Osso Buco is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

As I recall my first encounter with this Italian gem, I was armed with nothing but enthusiasm (and a slightly questionable knife skills) at a dinner party. The moment that fork pierced through the succulent meat, I felt like I had discovered culinary gold. Now, thanks to the Instant Pot, you can create this masterpiece without the hours of slaving over the stove. So let’s get ready to savor every delightful bite!

Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Osso Buco

This incredible Instant Pot Osso Buco transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Instant Pot Osso Buco:

Veal Shanks: Look for well-marbled shanks for maximum tenderness and flavor; about 1-1.5 inches thick works best.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Celery: This aromatic veggie enhances flavor; chop it finely for even distribution.
Onion: Use a yellow onion for its mild sweetness; dice it up to release those flavorful juices.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; mince them finely to pack a punch in your sauce.

For the sauce:

Tomato Paste: This gives depth and richness; use high-quality paste for best results.
White Wine: A dry white wine adds acidity and complexity; choose one you’d enjoy drinking!
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels in your dish.
Lemon Zest: Brightens up the dish wonderfully; use fresh zest for maximum flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Instant Pot Osso Buco:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them as mentioned above. Chop veggies, mince garlic, and have everything ready so you can work efficiently.

Step 2: Sear the Meat

Turn on your Instant Pot and select “Sauté.” Once it’s hot, add a splash of oil and sear the veal shanks on all sides until they are golden brown. This step builds incredible flavor!

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the shanks are browned (and smelling divine), toss in onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened—about five minutes—stirring frequently so nothing burns.

Step 4: Deglaze

Pour in that fabulous white wine! Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—those bits are pure flavor magic! Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Nestle those beautiful veal shanks back into the pot so they can soak up all that goodness.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid and select “Pressure Cook” on high for about an hour. While it cooks away, you can kick back with a glass of wine—don’t worry; this cooking magic doesn’t require much supervision!

Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release before carefully removing the lid.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy this fantastic Instant Pot Osso Buco with creamy polenta or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that heavenly sauce. Bon appétit!

You Must Know About Instant Pot Osso Buco

This showstopping Instant Pot Osso Buco delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the meat in the Instant Pot to lock in flavors, then sauté the aromatics like onions and garlic. Add your liquid and pressure cook until tender. Allow natural release for optimal texture before serving.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the traditional gremolata for a salsa verde or add a splash of red wine for depth. You can also toss in vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Instant Pot Osso Buco in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Instant Pot Osso Buco

This professional-quality Instant Pot Osso Buco relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking this dish reminds me of a family gathering where my aunt declared it the best thing she had ever tasted! It’s those moments that make all the chopping worthwhile.

FAQs

What is Instant Pot Osso Buco?

Instant Pot Osso Buco is a traditional Italian dish made with braised veal shanks. The term “osso buco” translates to “bone with a hole,” referring to the marrow-filled bone at the center of the shank. This dish is rich in flavor, thanks to a combination of aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery, along with tomatoes and white wine. Cooking it in an Instant Pot significantly reduces the time needed for tenderizing the meat while maintaining its delicious taste. Enjoy it served over creamy polenta or risotto for a truly comforting meal.

How do you serve Instant Pot Osso Buco?

You can serve Instant Pot Osso Buco in various ways. A popular choice is to pair it with creamy risotto or soft polenta, which complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly. Some prefer to accompany it with garlic mashed potatoes or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. A sprinkle of fresh gremolata adds brightness and flavor, enhancing the overall experience. Whichever way you choose to serve it, this dish promises a hearty meal that delights your taste buds.

Can I make Instant Pot Osso Buco with other meats?

While traditional osso buco uses veal shanks, you can experiment with other meats in your Instant Pot Osso Buco recipe. Pork shanks or lamb shanks are excellent alternatives that provide a unique twist on this classic dish. The cooking time may slightly vary depending on the meat you choose but will still benefit from the pressure cooking method. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the meat is well-browned before pressure cooking for maximum flavor and tenderness.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Osso Buco?

Cooking Instant Pot Osso Buco typically takes about 45 minutes under high pressure once you’ve sautéed your ingredients. However, including the time needed for building pressure and releasing it afterward, you should allocate around 1 hour and 15 minutes for the entire process. This reduced cooking time compared to traditional methods makes using an Instant Pot an attractive option for enjoying this flavorful dish without spending all day in the kitchen.

Conclusion

In summary, Instant Pot Osso Buco offers a delightful blend of flavors and tender meat that makes it a favorite among Italian cuisine lovers. Its quick cooking time in an Instant Pot allows you to enjoy this classic dish without lengthy preparation. By serving it alongside creamy polenta or risotto and garnishing with fresh gremolata, you create an unforgettable dining experience. Try making Instant Pot Osso Buco for your next special occasion or family dinner—it’s sure to impress!