Easy Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe to Try

If you are craving a hearty, melt-in-your-mouth dinner, this Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is the perfect place to start. Slow-cooked until tender and infused with rich flavors, these ribs bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or a special occasion, this recipe is simple enough for home cooks and indulgent enough to impress, making every bite truly unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched tenderness: Slow braising ensures the short ribs become incredibly soft and juicy.
• Rich, deep flavor: A blend of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and red wine creates layers of taste that develop beautifully during cooking.
• Easy to prepare: Minimal hands-on time lets you set it and forget it while your kitchen fills with tempting aromas.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is both comforting and elegant, ideal for sharing with loved ones.
• Versatile serving options: Pairs well with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up every luscious drop.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, relied upon for their classic roles that bring together taste, texture, and vibrant color in this Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe. Each one plays a key part in building the dish’s rich profile.

• Beef short ribs: Choose bone-in ribs for better flavor and tenderness through slow cooking.
• Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery add sweetness and aroma, complementing the beef perfectly.
• Garlic: Adds a punch of savory depth without overpowering the ribs.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the umami and enriches the braising liquid with a subtle tang.
• Red wine: Enhances the flavor complexity and tenderizes the meat as it cooks.
• Beef broth: Creates a rich and flavorful base for the braise.
• Fresh herbs: Thyme and bay leaves infuse herbal notes that brighten the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the ingredients into balance.
• Olive oil: For browning the ribs and sautéing vegetables, adding a subtle richness.

Variations for Braised Beef Short Ribs

This recipe is a fantastic foundation that adapts effortlessly to your palate or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it truly your own.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or smoked paprika for a warm kick.
• Sweet notes: Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar or a bit of brown sugar into the braising liquid for depth and balance.
• Herb swaps: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme to introduce different herbal aromas.
• Cooking liquids: Substitute red wine with dark beer or a robust coffee for an adventurous flavor profile.
• Vegetarian-friendly twist: Swap beef for large portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a similar earthy richness.

How to Make Braised Beef Short Ribs

Step 1: Preparing the Short Ribs

Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Generously season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural beef flavor.

Step 2: Browning the Meat

Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides until deeply caramelized, which adds intense flavor to the dish. Remove ribs and set aside.

Step 3: Sautéing Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to develop richness.

Step 4: Deglazing and Braising

Pour in red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add beef broth, fresh herbs, and return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged.

Step 5: Slow Cooking

Cover the pot tightly and place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Remove ribs from the pot, strain the braising liquid if desired, and simmer on the stovetop to thicken into a luscious sauce. Serve ribs topped with the sauce for maximum flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Braised Beef Short Ribs

• Choose quality meat: Look for well-marbled short ribs to ensure juicy, flavorful results.
• Don’t rush browning: Take your time to develop a rich crust for deeper flavor.
• Use a heavy pot: A Dutch oven or thick-bottomed pan helps regulate heat evenly during braising.
• Low and slow: Cooking at a low temperature for several hours guarantees tender, fall-apart ribs.
• Rest before serving: Let the ribs rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices and enhance tenderness.

How to Serve Braised Beef Short Ribs

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and brightness, balancing the rich meat. A sprinkle of lemon zest can add unexpected freshness as well.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta work beautifully to soak up the savory sauce. Roasted root vegetables or a green salad also provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the short ribs over buttered egg noodles or tucked into soft buns as sliders for a fun twist. Alternatively, share them family-style on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool leftover ribs to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the sauce separate for the best texture.

Freezing

Wrap the ribs tightly with sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Warm leftovers slowly over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven to maintain tenderness and prevent drying out. Add a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use boneless short ribs for this recipe?

Yes, but bone-in ribs are preferred for more flavor and juiciness; boneless will still work but may cook slightly faster.

Do I have to use red wine, or can I skip it?

You can omit red wine if needed; substituting with extra beef broth or grape juice works well for flavor without alcohol.

Is this recipe suitable for slow cookers?

Absolutely! Brown the ribs and sauté veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are ready when the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone, typically after 2.5 to 3 hours of braising.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure the broth and any added stocks are gluten-free and avoid any seasoning mixes containing gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is a true win for anyone wanting an effortless way to enjoy a rich, tender, and crowd-pleasing meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it invites you to slow down and savor every delicious bite. Give it a try, and soon it will be one of your favorite go-to dishes for cozy nights at home.

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