Easy Braised Short Ribs Recipe

Indulging in a savory meal is a pleasure for any food lover, and an easy braised short ribs recipe fits the bill perfectly. This dish combines tender meat with rich flavors, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress at the dinner table. With minimal effort, you can transform tough cuts of beef into a delicious masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy.

Every Sunday, my grandmother would prepare a special meal for the family, and braised short ribs were often the star of the show. The aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Though she never shared her secret ingredient, I’ve managed to recreate the rich flavor profile through trial and error. Now, this dish holds a cherished place in my family cookbook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a treasure for several reasons:

• Effortless Elegance: Despite its gourmet taste, the dish is remarkably simple to prepare.
• Rich Flavor: Slow cooking the ribs allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a succulent and savory dish.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for entertaining, this recipe is sure to wow your guests without requiring a professional kitchen.
• Versatility: Complemented by a variety of sides, it can fit into any meal setting from casual to formal.

Ingredients Notes

The success of this recipe hinges on using quality ingredients:

• Short Ribs: Opt for beef ribs with good marbling for a more tender and flavorful result.
• Red Wine: While optional, red wine deepens the overall flavor. Choose a good quality wine you enjoy drinking.
• Beef Stock: For the best taste, use homemade beef stock if possible.
• Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and herbs add depth, so don’t skimp on these.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Sear the Ribs: In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until brown, then set aside.

Step 3

Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté till translucent, then deglaze with red wine, scraping the bits off the bottom.

Step 4

Braise: Return the ribs to the pot, add beef stock, and desired herbs. Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for about 2.5 hours until the ribs are fork-tender.

Step 5

Finish & Serve: Skim excess fat off the top. Adjust seasoning and serve the ribs warm, topped with pan sauce.

Storage Options

For leftovers, let the ribs cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stove or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for best results.

Variations & Substitutions

For a different flavor profile, try adding different herbs such as thyme or rosemary. For a lighter version, substitute the beef with poultry or use a white wine for a milder taste. Vegetarians can use portobello mushrooms in place of the meat to capture a similar hearty texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines with sides like buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, which soak up the delicious sauce beautifully. Serve it during a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering, perfectly paired with a robust red wine. Add steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a balanced plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After searing the ribs and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the ribs are tender.

What cuts of beef are suitable for this recipe?
Apart from short ribs, you can use chuck roast or beef shanks for a similar texture. Ensure the meat has ample marbling to prevent dryness during cooking.

How can I thicken the sauce?
To thicken the sauce, remove the ribs once cooked and continue to simmer the liquid. Alternatively, create a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it into the sauce, cooking until thickened to your preference.

Easy Braised Short Ribs Recipe

This Easy Braised Short Ribs Recipe will become your new favorite. Perfectly tender and juicy ribs cooked in a rich, savory sauce.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours hours

Total Time: 3 hours hours 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 4 pounds beef short ribs bone-in
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
• ▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ▢ 1 large onion chopped
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 2 cups beef broth low sodium
• ▢ 1 cup red wine optional
• ▢ 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ▢ 1 teaspoon thyme dried

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
• Stir in beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
• Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Bake for 3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
• Remove from oven and skim off any excess fat from the sauce before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, prepare a day in advance and allow the flavors to develop overnight.