Braised Short Ribs Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

If you’ve ever hosted family or friends, you know the magic of serving a dish that makes everyone feel at home. For me, it’s braised short ribs.

There’s something about those tender, fall-off-the-bone morsels that gets everyone talking. When stacked on a plate of creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy polenta, it becomes a feast worthy of celebration.

What Are Braised Short Ribs?

Braised short ribs are cuts of beef that come from the chuck section, typically bone-in. They require slow cooking in a flavorful liquid, which transforms tough meat into something incredibly tender and rich in taste. 

The process doesn’t just cook the meat; it infuses it with layers of flavor that are simply divine. You can serve this dish with various sides that complement its richness, making it versatile for any occasion.

The Ingredients

Let’s dive into what you need for this glorious dish. Here’s the lineup:

• 8 bone-in beef short ribs
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  
• 1/4 cup plain all-purpose flour
  
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 3 medium carrots, diced
  
• 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
  
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium beef stock
  
• 2 tablespoons concentrated tomato paste
  
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme

How to Make Braised Short Ribs

I assure you; while the process might seem lengthy, every step is worth it. The wait is going to excite your senses.

Step 1: Season and Sear

Start by generously seasoning your short ribs with salt and pepper. Afterward, dredge them in the flour, shaking off any excess. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. 

Add the short ribs, searing them on all sides until you get a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This should take about 3-4 minutes for each side. Don’t skip this step; it’s where flavor begins.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your ribs are beautifully browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrots. 

Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent. This step builds a fantastic base for the braising liquid.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

Now comes the fun part! Pour in your red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. You want all those tasty browned bits to lift and mix back into the sauce. 

Bring the wine to a simmer, letting it reduce for about 2-3 minutes. This concentrates the flavors and gives your dish that deep, complex taste.

Step 4: Add Stock and Simmer

Next, stir in the beef stock, concentrated tomato paste, rosemary, and thyme. Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid. 

Everything should be at a gentle simmer, with the ribs partially submerged. Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven set to 300°F (150°C).

Step 5: Braise Low and Slow

Let those bad boys braise for about 3 hours. This is the waiting game. The low temperature helps break down the collagen in the meat, turning it from tough to tender. After 3 hours, check for tenderness—if the meat falls off the bone easily, you’re ready!

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once you’ve got the ribs tender, remove them from the oven. Carefully take them out of the liquid and set them aside. Strain the braising liquid into a saucepan, discarding the solids. 

Simmer the liquid on the stovetop until it thickens (about 10-15 minutes). This step intensifies the flavors even more.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once your sauce has thickened, pour it over the rib meat. Serve immediately or let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to deepen. Pair it with your favorite sides, and watch the compliments roll in.

Notes

Here are some tips to elevate your braised short ribs:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh, high-quality short ribs for the best flavor and texture.
  
• Don’t Rush: Letting the dish cook low and slow results in tender meat and rich flavors.
  
• Personal Touch: Experiment by adding aromatic herbs or vegetables.
  
• Rest the Ribs: Allowing the meat to rest before serving helps retain juices.
  
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.
  

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store braised short ribs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  
• Freeze: They freeze well too! Store in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a saucepan, adding a splash of water or stock if necessary.
  

Serving Suggestions

Here’s how to make your feast even more delightful:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic companion for short ribs. Their creamy texture soaks up all that rich sauce.
  
• Polenta: A perfect alternative that adds a different dimension, elevating the dish to new heights of comfort.
  
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Add a fresh touch. Their color and crunch provide a beautiful contrast.
  
• Crusty Bread: Great for sopping up the sauce. Who doesn’t love a good piece of bread with a hearty meal?
  
• Simple Salad: Lighten the plate. A crisp green salad balances the richness of the meat.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Braised Short Ribs?

If you can’t find short ribs or want to try alternatives, here are some fantastic substitutes:

• Chuck Roast: A suitable choice that will also yield tender results when braised.
  
• Brisket: Another flavorful option, though it may require a bit longer to cook until tender.
  
• Lamb Shanks: For a twist, lamb offers a unique flavor profile that takes this dish in a different direction.
  
• Pork Shoulder: An excellent alternative with a lot of marbling that becomes tender and delicious.
  
• Beef Shanks: Perfect if you like a bit of bone marrow flavor. They are also quite delicious when braised.
  

Conclusion

Braised short ribs are a comforting classic that never goes out of style. They are perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. 

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this masterpiece. No matter how you serve it, the tenderness and rich flavors are bound to impress. Try this recipe and invite your friends over. After all, good food is always better when shared.

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