Kansas City is known for its barbecue steaks, and all things meat. So if you’re looking for some delicious veal shanks KC has plenty of options for you. In this article, we’ll guide you on where to find the best veal shanks in Kansas City.
What Exactly is Veal?
Before jumping into where to buy veal shanks let’s first understand what veal is. Veal comes from young calves that are typically under 20 weeks old. Veal has a delicate mild flavor and tends to be more tender than beef from older cattle.
The veal shank or osso buco cut comes from the hind leg of the calf. It contains lots of collagen which results in rich, flavorful meat that becomes fall-off-the-bone tender when cooked low and slow.
Why are Veal Shanks so Popular?
Veal shanks are a popular cut to use for dishes like osso buco. They braise exceptionally well and the bone adds even more flavor.
When braised, the veal shank meat becomes incredibly tender while still attached to the bone. This makes for a beautiful presentation. The bone also enriches the sauce or braising liquid.
Additionally, veal shanks are a great size for serving one or two people. Each shank provides a satisfying individual portion.
Where to Buy Veal Shanks in Kansas City
Now that you know what makes veal shanks such a prized cut, where can you buy them in KC? Here are some of the best places to find veal shanks locally:
Kansas City Steaks
Kansas City Steaks is a nationwide provider of premium steaks, meats, seafood and more. Their offerings include USDA Prime beef, American Wagyu, bison and much more.
They carry bone-in veal osso buco or shanks that are wet aged and hormone free. The hind shanks weigh approximately 1 pound each. Kansas City Steaks ships their veal shanks frozen with dry ice.
The Upper Cut
The Upper Cut is a specialty butcher shop located in the Crossroads area of downtown Kansas City. They offer high-end local meats like heritage breed pork, grass-fed beef, and locally-raised chickens.
Their in-house butchers can cut veal shanks to order any size you need. You can place orders online or visit the shop. The Upper Cut is open Tuesday through Saturday.
Local Butcher Shops
Kansas City has a number of locally-owned butcher shops like McGonigle’s Market and Local Pig. The selection varies day to day, but many can order veal shanks with some advance notice.
Be sure to call your neighborhood butcher to ask about veal shank availability and pricing. Shopping local supports small businesses in KC.
Restaurant Suppliers
Restaurant supply stores like ChefStore sell veal shanks and other harder-to-find cuts to the public. These companies supply restaurants, so the veal will meet high quality standards.
Selection and availability varies. Be prepared to buy bigger quantities, like a full case. ChefStore has locations in Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS.
Costco
For those looking to buy veal shanks in bulk, Costco is a good option. They carry cases of boneless veal osso buco ready for braising. Call ahead to check veal shank stock at your local warehouse.
Buying a case of 12 shanks can be cost effective if you want to meal prep or host a crowd. Plus the shanks come already tied with butcher’s twine which saves some prep work.
How Much do Veal Shanks Cost?
Veal shanks are one of the more expensive cuts of meat, thanks to the short lifespan of veal calves. You can expect to pay $16 to $30 per pound for veal osso buco shanks from specialty retailers. Buying a case in bulk may reduce the per pound cost.
For high quality veal shanks, don’t solely shop by price. Be sure to read seller reviews and that the veal is humanely raised. Poorly-raised veal is inhumane to the animals and results in inferior taste and texture.
How Should You Cook Veal Shanks?
The best way to cook veal shanks is braising or stewing until tender and cooked through, but not overdone. Veal can become tough and dry if cooked incorrectly.
Try these delicious veal shank recipes:
- Classic Osso Buco with Risotto or Polenta
- Veal Shank Stew with Root Vegetables
- Braised Veal Shanks in Tomato Sauce
- Creamy Veal Shank and Mushroom Ragout
Cooking low and slow melts the collagen into rich, velvety sauce or gravy. The meat easily pulls clean from the bone after 2-3 hours of braising.
Pro Tip: Ask Your Butcher to Tie Veal Shanks
Have your butcher tightly tie the veal shanks with butcher’s twine before cooking. Tying prevents the meat from falling off the bone too early in the braise.
Enjoy Delicious Veal Osso Buco in Kansas City
With so many places to buy quality veal shanks, you can make the classic Italian osso buco dish at home. Or experiment with veal in stews, soups, gravy and more.
Support local Kansas City businesses by purchasing your veal shanks from specialty butcher shops and meat markets around town. Their skilled butchers can cut or tie the shanks to your specification.
What’s your favorite way to cook veal shanks? Let us know in the comments!
How to choose and cook veal shanks – LeGourmetTV
FAQ
What is a good substitute for veal shanks?
Is veal shank the same as osso buco?
Are veal shanks expensive?
Is veal shank healthy?
Does Vincent’s meat market have veal meat?
Experience the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and robust flavor of our veal meat and explore our selection. Trust Vincent’s Meat Market to take your next meal to new heights. Vincent’s Meat Market offers fresh veal meat so that you can make mouth-watering veal dishes from the comfort of your home. Reach out today to learn more.
How many veal shanks are in a package?
Each order contains two packages; each package contains two 14 – 18 oz milk-fed Dutch veal shanks. Very large, meaty shanks. Best
Are there any allergens in veal shank osso bucco – 1 lb?
Allergen Notice: Products in our stores may contain, or may have been exposed to, one or more of the following allergens: peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish and crustacean shellfish. Shop Veal Shank Osso Bucco – 1 Lb from Safeway. Browse our wide selection of Veal for Delivery or Drive Up & Go to pick up at the store!
What makes a good veal stall?
The stalls are spacious, light and airy. The result is a high quality delicious veal. Slow cook for rich, fall-off-the-bone tender meat. The bone-in presentation is not only dramatic, but the luscious bone marrow is also considered a delicacy. Uncooked, ready to braise and serve.