Asian-Inspired Osso Buco

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Four 1-pound pieces of beef shank
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger, plus 2 tablespoons finely slivered
• 20 cilantro sprigs with roots, plus cilantro leaves for garnish
• 4 star anise pods
• 2 tablespoons Szechwan peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 3 cups beef or chicken stock
• 1 cup dry sherry
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 large scallions, thinly sliced

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°. Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large enameled cast-iron casserole. Add the beef shanks, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer the shanks to a plate and discard the oil.
2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and the garlic, sugar, onion and chopped ginger to the casserole and cook over low heat until the onion is deeply browned, about 7 minutes. Add the cilantro sprigs, star anise, Szechwan peppercorns and crushed red pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add the broth, sherry and soy sauce and bring to a simmer. Return the shanks to the casserole and bring to a simmer. Cover and braise in the oven for about 3 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
3. Transfer the shanks to a platter and cover with foil. Strain the sauce and return it to the casserole. Simmer over low heat until very flavorful, about 5 minutes. Add the slivered ginger and the veal shanks, season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Transfer the shanks to shallow bowls and spoon the sauce on top. Sprinkle with the scallions and cilantro leaves and serve.