Beef short ribs are a timeless classic in comfort food, loved for their tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and rich flavor. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a special occasion, or simply craving a hearty dish, this recipe is sure to become your go-to favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a foolproof method to prepare mouthwatering beef short ribs. You’ll also discover tips, tricks, and variations to elevate this dish to perfection.
What are Beef Short Ribs?
Beef short ribs are cut from the rib section of cattle and are known for their succulent meat and robust flavor. They consist of the 6th to 10th ribs, which are shorter and more curved than pork ribs. The meat is rich in connective tissue, making it ideal for slow-cooking methods like braising, resulting in juicy, tender meat. They’re versatile and can be prepared with a variety of flavor profiles, from classic BBQ to savory braises.
Ingredients
For the Beef Short Ribs:
- 4 lbs (1.8 kg) beef short ribs (bone-in)
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
For the Braising Liquid:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional; substitute with additional broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Brown sugar: Add a tablespoon to balance the acidity (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Cook Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Season the Ribs: Flour them in plain flour seasoned generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Ribs: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, releasing its aroma.
Step 3: Build the Braising Sauce
- Deglaze the Pot: Add the red wine to the pot, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits (this adds extra flavor).
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves.
Step 4: Braise the Ribs
- Reintroduce the Ribs: Nestle the seared ribs back into the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and Cook: Cover with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Let the ribs braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
Step 5: Finishing Touches (optional for thickening the sauce)
Once the ribs are done, remove them from the pot and keep them warm. Strain the braising liquid to remove the solids and return the liquid to the pot. Simmer the sauce over medium heat until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving) Calories: 540-Protein: 37g-Fat: 35g-Saturated fat: 12g-Cholesterol: 80mg-Sodium: 450mg-Carbohydrates: 20g-Fiber: 2g-Sugar: 5g
Video
Tips for the Best Beef Short Ribs
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for bone-in short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Brown the Meat Properly: Browning the short ribs creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste.
- Low and Slow is Key: Slow cooking ensures the connective tissues break down, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can lead to dry and tough meat.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the ribs to rest for 10 minutes before serving to retain their juices.
- Serve with the Braising Liquid: The rich, flavorful braising liquid is a perfect accompaniment to the short ribs.
Pairing Ideas
Beef short ribs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort-food pairing or steamed rice.
- Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich flavor of the short ribs. Use beef broth or stock as a substitute.
- Sauces: Horseradish cream sauce, chimichurri sauce, or a simple red wine reduction.
- Buttered Noodles: Serve over wide egg noodles for a hearty meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a nutritious touch with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
- Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Variations to Try
- BBQ Short Ribs: Swap the braising liquid with BBQ sauce and cook in a slow cooker for a tangy twist.
- Asian-Style Short Ribs (Korean short ribs): Featuring beef short ribs that are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and often pear or apple for added sweetness and tenderizing effects.
- Spicy Mexican Ribs: Add chipotle peppers, cumin, and smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to cook short ribs?
A: 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
Q: Can I use pork ribs instead?
A: No, beef short ribs are preferred for braising.
Q: Can I make beef short ribs in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! After searing the ribs, transfer them to a slow cooker with the braising liquid and vegetables. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Q: Can I cook short ribs on the stovetop?
A: Yes, but oven braising yields better results.
Q: Can I substitute the red wine?
A: Yes, replace red wine with additional beef broth, grape juice, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Related Recipes
- Braised Lamb Shanks: Substitute lamb shanks for short ribs.
- Classic Pot Roast: Beef chuck roast is a popular choice for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.
- Korean short ribs, also known as galbi or kalbi.
- Beef Bourguignon: Add mushrooms and bacon for added richness.
- Short Ribs with BBQ Sauce: Finish with BBQ sauce for a sweet twist.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists and variations in the comments below! 🥩🍷
