Elk Osso Bucco 

An elk is an ungulate animal belonging to the deer family. The natural habitat of this species is the forest and forest-steppe zone of the Northern Hemisphere. Elk have a massive body, covered with dark brown hair, high withers, long, thin legs and a hook-shaped head with a drooping, fleshy upper lip. Males have large shovel horns, females are hornless. Dark red elk muscle meat, intended for human consumption, is called elk meat. With its organoleptic properties, it resembles veal or beef, and taste - lamb. The main difference between elk meat and cattle meat is increased rigidity and the presence of the characteristic smell of the game. For this reason, before cooking, it is marinated or immersed in water. A lot of nutritious and tasty dishes are cooked with prepared elk meat. The meat is fried, boiled, stewed, grilled and baked in aluminum foil. In addition, it is used to make fragrant broths, kebabs, minced meat balls, ravioli, smoked sausages and canned goods.

Ingredients

4 pieces elk shank

80 ml (1/3 cup) flour

45 ml (3 tbsp) olive oil

1 white onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

2 Italian tomatoes, diced

60 ml (1/4 cup) tomato paste

2 pinches peppercorns

2 pinches oregano

125 ml (1/2 cup) red wine

1 L (4 cups) game stock Fleur de sel, to taste

Preparation

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Coat elk shank with flour.

In a large ovenproof casserole, heat oil on a burner and brown the meat on both sides. Add onion and garlic. Continue cooking for a few minutes. Add tomatoes, tomato paste and spices. Deglaze with wine and reduce by half. Add stock, cover and transfer to oven. Roast until meat becomes very tender, about 3 hours.

Wine pairing

San Felice Chianti Classico 2020

Wine experts think this Italian Chianti wine would be a match made in heaven with this dish. Bon appétit!

Tasting note

A generous, lifted, spicy nose, with cranberry fruit characters and a hint of cedar. The palate has fresh red cherry and bramble fruit flavours and fine, polished tannins - showing depth and good integration along with ripe red fruits, vibrant acidity, and a long supple finish.