Braised Short Ribs Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, Braised Short Ribs hold a special place in my heart. There’s something so satisfying about that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, especially when you’ve taken the time to prepare them with love. This dish is all about the slow cooking, which allows the beef short ribs to soak up all those incredible flavors from the wine, broth, and aromatic vegetables. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly Sunday evening, and I wanted to create something special for my family. As the ribs simmered away, the house filled with the most inviting aroma—rich and savory with hints of herbs. I could hardly wait for dinner time, and when we finally sat down to eat, we were blown away. The meat was so tender it practically fell off the bone, and each bite was bursting with flavor.

One of the best things about braised short ribs is how versatile they can be. You can serve them over creamy polenta, buttery mashed potatoes, or even alongside a hearty root vegetable mash. The sauce that develops during the cooking process is so delicious that you’ll want to pour it generously over whatever you’re serving it with!

There’s something about gathering around the table with loved ones, enjoying a meal that has been slowly prepared, that feels truly special. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can even experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own.

So, whether you’re making this for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, Braised Short Ribs are sure to impress and become a favorite in your household, just like they did in mine. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons why Braised Short Ribs will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: After slow cooking, the short ribs become incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone and melting in your mouth.
• Rich and Savory Flavor: The deep flavors from the braising liquid, including wine and aromatic herbs, create a deliciously rich and complex sauce.
• Comforting Meal: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings with family and friends.
• Impressive Presentation: Braised short ribs look elegant and sophisticated on the plate, making them a perfect choice for entertaining guests.
• Easy Preparation: While they require some time to cook, the prep work is minimal, allowing you to relax while they braise in the oven.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve them with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, making for a hearty meal.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a special celebration, these short ribs elevate any meal and make it memorable.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it, allowing the flavors to deepen and making serving stress-free.
• Savory Leftovers: The leftovers are just as delicious, making for satisfying lunches or dinners the following days.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a festive holiday gathering, braised short ribs are a comforting and delicious choice year-round.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 3 hours
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 45g, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 50g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Braised Short Ribs:

For the Short Ribs:

• 4 pounds beef short ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 1 bay leaf

Ingredient Highlights

• Short Ribs: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness.
• Red Wine: Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce and tenderizes the meat.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery form the aromatic base for the braising liquid.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary infuse the dish with fragrant notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Braised Short Ribs:

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Sear the Short Ribs

• Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the short ribs, searing on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
• Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
• Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Deglaze the Pot

• Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

• Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and return the short ribs to the pot.
• Ensure the ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.

Braise the Ribs

• Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
• Braise for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.

Serve

• Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Discard the bay leaf and herb stems.
• Serve the short ribs with the sauce spooned over, along with your choice of sides.

How to Serve

Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your Braised Short Ribs:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the tender short ribs on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the rich sauce to soak in.
• With Polenta: Pair the short ribs with soft, cheesy polenta for a comforting, hearty meal that complements the meat perfectly.
• On a Bed of Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the delicious braising liquid, creating a satisfying dish.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Accompany the short ribs with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• In Tacos: Shred the braised short ribs and serve them in warm corn tortillas topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and salsa for a fun twist.
• With Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the flavorful sauce, enhancing the dining experience.
• As a Sandwich: Use the meat in a hearty sandwich with pickles and barbecue sauce for a delicious, casual meal.
• With Cauliflower Purée: Serve alongside a smooth cauliflower purée for a lighter, yet elegant presentation.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Slice the short ribs and include them on a charcuterie board with cheeses, olives, and spreads for a delightful appetizer.
• With a Side Salad: Pair the rich flavors of the short ribs with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal.

Additional Tips

To make the most of your Braised Short Ribs, consider these tips:

1. Choose the Right Cut: Opt for well-marbled beef short ribs, which will yield tender and flavorful results after braising. Flanken-style or English-cut ribs work well.
2. Sear the Ribs: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the short ribs before braising adds depth and richness to the dish.
3. Enhance Flavor with Aromatics: Use a combination of onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for a flavor base. Adding herbs like thyme and bay leaves can elevate the taste.
4. Use Quality Liquid: Braising liquid can include beef broth, red wine, or a mixture of both. Using high-quality ingredients enhances the overall flavor.
5. Add Acid: A splash of vinegar or citrus juice in the braising liquid can help balance the richness of the beef.
6. Low and Slow Cooking: Braise the short ribs at a low temperature (around 300°F) for several hours. This method allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in tender ribs.
7. Skim the Fat: After cooking, allow the dish to cool slightly, then skim off excess fat from the surface for a cleaner finish.
8. Let It Rest: Allow the short ribs to rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
9. Make It Ahead: Braised short ribs can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight, and you can easily reheat them before serving.
10. Pair with Starch: Serve the ribs over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

Try these variations for a new twist on Braised Short Ribs:

• Asian-Inspired Braised Short Ribs: Marinate the short ribs in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil before braising. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed bok choy.
• Red Wine and Herb Braise: Use a full-bodied red wine along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a rich flavor. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Barbecue Braised Short Ribs: Braise the short ribs in barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist. Finish on the grill or broiler to caramelize the sauce.
• Coffee and Chipotle Braised Short Ribs: Combine brewed coffee, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce for a spicy, robust flavor. Serve with cornbread.
• Cocoa and Red Wine Braise: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to the braising liquid for a unique depth of flavor, balancing the bitterness with red wine. Serve with roasted vegetables.
• Miso and Ginger Braised Short Ribs: Incorporate miso paste and fresh ginger into the braising liquid for an umami-packed dish. Pair with jasmine rice.
• Spicy Mexican Braised Short Ribs: Use a combination of tomatoes, chipotle in adobo, and cumin for a Mexican flair. Serve with tortillas and avocado slices.
• Mediterranean Braised Short Ribs: Braise with tomatoes, olives, and artichokes, infusing flavors of the Mediterranean. Serve with couscous or polenta.
• Balsamic Braised Short Ribs: Use balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy glaze. Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts and garlic bread.
• Smoky Paprika Braised Short Ribs: Incorporate smoked paprika into the braising liquid for a smoky flavor. Serve with a side of creamy polenta.

These variations can add exciting new flavors and textures to your Braised Short Ribs!

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store your Braised Short Ribs:

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months; ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Special Equipment

To make this recipe, you may need the following kitchen tools:

• Dutch Oven: A heavy, oven-safe pot for searing and braising the short ribs.
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables and trimming the short ribs.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for food preparation.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the short ribs are cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like broth, wine, and spices.
• Tongs: For flipping and removing the short ribs from the pot.
• Strainer or Sieve: To strain the braising liquid if desired for a smoother sauce.
• Large Bowl: For holding cooked vegetables or the finished dish.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the Dutch oven during cooking to retain moisture.

These items will help make the process of braising short ribs more efficient and enjoyable!

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some common questions about Braised Short Ribs:

1. Can I use boneless short ribs?
   Yes, but adjust cooking times as boneless ribs may cook faster.
2. How do I know when the ribs are done?
   They should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
3. Can I make this dish in advance?
   Absolutely! It’s perfect for making ahead, as flavors improve overnight.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
   Mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices.
5. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can try this method with beef chuck or pork.
6. Is it necessary to use wine?
   While wine adds flavor, you can substitute more broth if preferred.
7. Can I add vegetables to the braise?
   Yes, root vegetables like carrots or potatoes can be added.
8. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
9. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
10. How can I thicken the sauce?
    Simmer it on the stovetop to reduce and thicken before serving.

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Conclusion

Braised Short Ribs is a culinary masterpiece that combines rich flavors with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners. This dish showcases the beauty of slow cooking, allowing the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing a medley of herbs, spices, and savory liquids. The long, slow cooking process enables the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is impressive.

Serve your braised short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal that will delight your family and guests. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with delicious sides, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Indulge in the comforting embrace of this classic dish and savor every bite! I can’t wait to hear how your braised short ribs turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delightful creations! Happy cooking!