Osso Buco alla Milanese (veal shanks)
  • 1. Osso Buco alla Milanese is a classic Italian dish that hails from the region of Lombardy, specifically the city of Milan. The name 'Osso Buco' translates to 'bone with a hole,' referring to the cross-cut veal shanks used in this dish, which are braised slowly to achieve a tender and flavorful outcome. The dish is typically prepared by searing the veal shanks until they are golden brown, then simmering them in a rich mixture of white wine, broth, onions, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs such as bay leaves and thyme. This slow-cooking process allows the collagen in the veal to break down, resulting in a succulent and melt-in-your-mouth texture. A traditional accompaniment to Osso Buco is gremolata, a zesty mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley that adds freshness and brightness to the dish. Often, Osso Buco is served alongside risotto alla Milanese, a creamy risotto flavored with saffron, which beautifully complements the rich flavors of the braised veal. The dish is not only a celebration of careful cooking and regional ingredients but also a testament to the Italian culinary tradition of transforming simple ingredients into a hearty and deeply satisfying meal.

    What is Osso Buco primarily made of?
A) Pork ribs
B) Lamb chops
C) Veal shanks
D) Chicken thighs
  • 2. What region of Italy is Osso Buco from?
A) Lazio
B) Sicily
C) Lombardy
D) Tuscany
  • 3. What part of the veal is used for Osso Buco?
A) Brisket
B) Shank
C) Shoulder
D) Loin
  • 4. What is 'gremolata'?
A) A vegetable puree
B) A type of pasta
C) A red wine sauce
D) A mixture of garlic, lemon zest, and parsley
  • 5. Which cooking method is commonly used for Osso Buco?
A) Braising
B) Steaming
C) Grilling
D) Frying
  • 6. Osso Buco is typically cooked with which vegetable?
A) Potatoes
B) Eggplant
C) Cauliflower
D) Carrots
  • 7. What is the texture of the veal in Osso Buco like?
A) Tough
B) Tender
C) Rubbery
D) Chewy
  • 8. Osso Buco is often finished with which herb?
A) Basil
B) Parsley
C) Thyme
D) Rosemary
  • 9. What is a key characteristic of the Osso Buco meat?
A) Bones without marrow
B) Bone marrow
C) Fatty edges
D) Skin
  • 10. What is the primary cooking vessel for Osso Buco?
A) Microwave
B) Dutch oven
C) Pressure cooker
D) Skillet
  • 11. What is the approximate cooking temperature for braising Osso Buco?
A) Low heat
B) High heat
C) No heat
D) Medium heat
  • 12. Is Osso Buco served with its bone?
A) In a different dish
B) Only sometimes
C) Yes
D) No
  • 13. What flavor profile does Osso Buco have?
A) Savory and rich
B) Bitter
C) Neutral
D) Sweet and sour
  • 14. For optimal flavor, how should Osso Buco be seasoned?
A) With sugar
B) With just water
C) With salt and pepper
D) With vinegar
  • 15. What type of wine is often used to deglaze the pan in Osso Buco alla Milanese?
A) Red wine
B) Dessert wine
C) Sparkling wine
D) White wine
  • 16. How long is Osso Buco typically braised?
A) 30 minutes
B) 5 hours
C) 1 hour
D) 2 to 3 hours
  • 17. What is the traditional Italian garnish for Osso Buco?
A) Gremolata
B) Pesto
C) Salsa verde
D) Aioli
  • 18. What color should the finished dish of Osso Buco be?
A) White
B) Bright red
C) Green
D) Golden brown
  • 19. What is the typical side dish for Osso Buco?
A) Gratin
B) Baked beans
C) Polenta
D) Fried rice
  • 20. What texture should the sauce of Osso Buco have?
A) Runny
B) Oily
C) Thick
D) Granular
  • 21. Which part of the animal does Veal shank come from?
A) Rib
B) Shoulder
C) Leg
D) Loin
  • 22. What wine pairing is commonly suggested with Osso Buco?
A) Chardonnay
B) Chianti
C) Sauvignon Blanc
D) Cabernet Sauvignon
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