Does Costco Sell Veal Shanks? A Guide to Finding This Tasty Cut of Meat

Veal shanks, also known as osso buco, are a delicious and tender cut of meat from younger calves. They are growing in popularity for stews, braises, and other slow-cooked dishes. With their rich, meaty flavor and fall-off-the-bone texture when properly prepared, it’s no wonder why more home cooks are seeking them out.

If you’re looking to make a flavorful osso buco or other braise, you may be wondering does Costco sell veal shanks? Here is a comprehensive guide to finding veal shanks and other types of veal at Costco.

An Overview of Veal at Costco

Costco does sell certain veal products, though the selection varies by location and availability. Here are some of the veal offerings you may find:

• Veal shanks/osso buco – Some warehouses carry fresh veal shanks or osso buco. They are usuallycryovacked and sold in packs of 2 shanks averaging 2 kg each.

• Ground veal – Costco sells ground veal meat in 1 lb packages. This lean ground veal can be used for dishes like meatballs, burgers, and more.

• Veal scaloppine – Thin slices of tender veal for scaloppini and other quick-cooking dishes. Sold in vacuum packed packages.

• Veal cutlets – Boneless veal cutlets are handy for breading and sautéing. Check for packs of 4 large cutlets.

• Veal loin chops – For grilling or pan-searing; thick, bone-in veal chops for more elegent meals.

• Frozen veal – Some frozen veal like breaded veal cutlets may be available to conveniently keep on hand.

So while Costco may not have a huge veal selection, they do carry some high-quality cuts and products that can elevate home-cooked dishes. Check with your local warehouse to see their current veal inventory.

Finding Veal Shanks Specifically at Costco

Out of Costco’s veal offerings, shoppers are often specifically curious about finding osso buco or veal shanks for slow braises like the classic Italian veal shank dish.

Availability of fresh veal shanks can vary greatly by region and season. Here are some tips for locating them at Costco:

• Ask the butcher counter – Talk to the butcher and see if they have veal shanks in the back available for portioning. This gives you the best chance to get them fresh.

• Check the fresh meat cases – Scan the refrigerated cases in the meat department for cryovac packs of 2 osso buco shanks. They are sometimes stocked here if demand is high.

• Look for temporary weekend offerings – Some warehouses bring in special weekend offerings like veal shanks on a limited basis. Check endcaps and special product displays.

• Call ahead to ask – If making a trip specifically for veal shanks, call your Costco’s meat department to check on availability so you don’t leave empty-handed.

• Ask about ordering – Find out if the warehouse can special order them for you even if they don’t normally carry them. Lead times vary.

• Consider nearby locations – Check stock at neighboring Costcos which may have different inventory. Look up their meat department phone numbers online to call and ask.

With some persistence and the right timing, there’s a good chance you can locate those flavorful veal shanks at a local Costco. Being flexible on timing helps, as supply fluctuates.

Buying Veal Shanks at Costco

If you do find veal osso buco in stock at your Costco, here are some tips for selecting the best packages:

• Check labeling – Look for packages labeled “veal shanks” or “veal osso buco.” Avoid vague labels like “veal for stew.”

• Examine color – Look for shanks with creamy pale pink to light brown meat. Avoid any with dark red or brown spots.

• Choose flexibility – Pick shanks that are bendable and not rigid, which indicates fresher veal. Pass on those that feel very stiff.

• Request additional trim – Politely ask the butcher to tidy any ragged ends or remove excess fat if desired. They are usually happy to accommodate.

• Confirm quantity – Packs are normally 2 shanks, but check weight matches around 2 kg per shank. Size can vary.

• Check dates – Make sure sell-by date allows enough time to cook them as they can take a few days in the slow cooker.

Always give the package a quick check before purchasing to ensure you’ve got high-quality veal shanks for your recipe.

Cost Analysis of Buying Veal Shanks at Costco

Compared to specialty butcher shops, Costco offers very competitive pricing on veal shanks when they have them in stock. Here’s a typical cost breakdown:

• Average weight per 2-pack – Around 4 kg or 8.8 pounds total

• Average price per 2-pack – $18 – $24

• Price per pound – Approximately $2.05 – $2.75 per lb

This works out to around $10 – $12 per high-quality veal shank depending on exact weight and price. It’s difficult to beat these prices, especially for humanely raised veal from trusted sources.

For budget-friendly osso buco, watch for when your local Costco has veal shanks in the meat department and snap them up. Freezing extras allows enjoying this luxury dish on a weeknight schedule.

Cooking Tips for Costco Veal Shanks

Preparing tender, falling-off-the-bone veal shanks requires some simple techniques. Here are tips for cooking up Costco’s veal shanks perfectly:

• Brown the shanks first in a hot pan to build deep, caramelized flavor. Use a bit of oil for even browning.

• Braise low and slow. Cook covered in broth or wine at 300°F – 325°F for 3 – 4 hours until fork tender.

• Check doneness by poking with a fork. Well-done shanks should be very tender but not falling completely off the bone.

• Let them rest after cooking for juices to redistribute before serving. 5 – 10 minutes resting makes them juicier.

• Reduce the braising liquid to make a luscious sauce for serving. Skim off any fat after cooking.

• Garnish with gremolata – The classic blend of parsley, garlic, and lemon zest brightens the rich dish.

With proper braising, Costco’s veal shanks will become the star of cozy, comforting meals all winter long. Veal osso buco is truly a dish suited for entertaining or just everyday family dinners.

Enjoying More Costco Veal Products

In addition to veal shanks, consider picking up other kinds of convenient veal during your regular Costco trips to enjoy this tender, luxurious meat more often.

• Ground veal has a milder taste than beef and makes the most delicately flavored meatballs or pasta sauces.

• Quick-cooking cutlets and scaloppine transform weeknight dinners with their short cook times and mild, buttery veal flavor.

• Hearty veal chops can be crusted and pan-seared for an elegant presentation with minimal effort.

Even smaller amounts of veal blended into lean ground beef add moisture and richness to everyday burger and taco nights. Don’t be afraid to experiment with veal to enhance all kinds of family favorites.

With its competitive pricing and convenient cuts, Costco makes enjoying tender, delicious veal more accessible. Watch for specialty items like fresh veal shanks or osso buco to take your next Italian feast up a notch. With the right techniques, you’ll be savoring fall-off-the-bone veal shanks braised in luscious sauces in no time.