Beef and Fresh Tomatoes

August, 2011

Play like a Gourmet

“Beef and tomatoes,” he says. My first thought…Ossobuco! Yes, it is a dish that strikes fear into the hearts of many, but it makes others salivate like Pavlov’s pooch. I am that pooch.

The first time I enjoyed this dish was actually at a local downtown Macon restaurant, literally one of my first nights in town. At the time, I had no idea what Ossobuco was but, as I have always been adventurous when it comes to food, I gave it a try. I didn’t know what the name meant and I had no basis of comparison to determine if it had been properly prepared. But after a couple of foodgasms – O, the marrow! – I set out to discover how to create this delectable, soul-comforting dish. It is surprisingly, even crock-pot, simple.

There are MANY different recipes that tell you how you are SUPPOSED to make Ossobuco but don’t be afraid to tweak them to your taste. Ossobuco means ‘bone with a hole’ so a shank of some sort is essential, but if you want to use lamb instead of veal, or can only find a beef shank – run with it. Season the dredging flour the way you want to. My braising stock is made from ox-tails, and I hate celery so I use leeks.

I LOVE baby heirloom tomatoes. But instead of just crushing them, I fire-roast them to give the sauce a unique caramelized texture. If your life requires super simple, throw it all in a crock pot and let it simmer. Imagine the accolades when your family tries something new and so delicious. The fun part – and it is supposed to be fun – is to take the ‘recipe’ and make it your own. I paired mine with saffron risotto and stuffed baby artichokes – I had lots of time and lots of wine. Mashed potatoes and Brussels, orzo and asparagus – oh, so many pairings.

Food, to me, is like artwork. Each of us enjoys certain combinations of flavors enhanced by colors, textures and aromas. This is the beautifully exquisite joy of cooking at home. The only palette you need to please is your own. Go out and find the freshest ingredients possible. Visit your local farmer’s market or produce stand and buy something you have never tried before. Grow fresh herbs in your kitchen windowsill, throw your fear aside, and play, play, play! Just be sure to play like your inner gourmet!

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