Healthy Bison Osso Bucco Recipe: Slow-Braised, Fall-Off-the-Bone Tender

Discover a healthy, nutrient-dense bison recipe perfect for family dinners and cozy nights.

This bison osso bucco is slow-braised in aromatics, broth, and wine until the meat is tender, the marrow is rich, and the flavors are deeply comforting. Ideal for weeknight meals or weekend feasts, this classic recipe highlights the natural taste and nutrition of bison shanks.

Servings: 2–3

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: ~1.5–2 hours

• Total Time: ~2–2.5 hours

Perfect for: Slow cooker meals, healthy protein dinners, meal prep, family-friendly comfort food.

Ingredients:

Bison & Aromatics

• 2 bison shanks (3/4–1 lb each)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• 1/2 medium onion, diced

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp tomato paste

Liquids & Herbs

• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef or bison broth

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or additional broth)

• 1/2 can (7 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 1/2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• Zest of 1/2 lemon

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Grated Parmesan

  
  

Instructions: Dutch Oven or Stove-Top

1. Prep Bison Shanks

   1. Pat shanks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear for Maximum Flavor

   1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

   2. Sear shanks 2–3 minutes per side until deeply browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Build the Flavor Base

   1. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened.

   2. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Deglaze & Combine

   1. Pour in wine (or broth) to deglaze, scraping up browned bits.

   2. Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary.

5. Slow-Braise

   1. Return shanks to the pot, ensuring the liquid covers at least 2/3 of the meat.

   2. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook approximately 1.5–2 hours until meat is tender and marrow is rich.

6. Finish & Serve

   1. Remove shanks and keep warm.

   2. Reduce sauce slightly over medium heat if needed. Stir in lemon zest for brightness.

   3. Serve over polenta, mashed cauliflower, or roasted vegetables. Garnish with parsley and optional Parmesan.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bison Osso Bucco

• Marrow: Scoop marrow from the bones. It’s nutrient-dense and adds richness.

• Veggie boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or greens for extra vitamins.

• Meal pairing: Perfect with creamy polenta, roasted root vegetables, or whole grains.

• Storage: Keeps in fridge up to 3 days; freezes well for up to 3 months.

Why Bison Osso Bucco is a Healthy Choice

• High in lean protein for muscle repair and satiety.

• Rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

• Leaner than beef, making it heart-healthy.

• Nutrient-dense when paired with vegetables and bone marrow.

FAQ: Can I use a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?

A: Yes. For a slow cooker, cook the bison shanks on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours with the same aromatics and liquid for tender, flavorful meat.

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