Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than this Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe. These succulent short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender meat that falls off the bone and a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion. Read on to discover how to make this delicious dish, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips.

What are Beef Short Ribs?

Beef short ribs are a cut of beef taken from the brisket, chuck, plate, or rib areas of the cow. They consist of a short portion of the rib bone and the meat attached to it. Known for their rich flavor and tender texture when cooked slowly, short ribs are a popular choice for braising or slow cooking.

Ingredients List for Beef Short Ribs

Basic Ingredients:

1. Beef Short Ribs: 4 pounds of bone-in beef short ribs.
2. Salt and Pepper: To taste.
3. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
4. Onion: 1 large onion, chopped.
5. Carrots: 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped.
6. Celery: 3 stalks of celery, chopped.
7. Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, minced.
8. Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons.
9. Red Wine: 1 cup of dry red wine.
10. Beef Broth: 2 cups of beef broth.
11. Thyme: 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
12. Rosemary: 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary.
13. Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Mushrooms: 8 ounces of cremini or button mushrooms, sliced.
2. Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon for added depth of flavor.
3. Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

1. Meat: Substitute with bone-in pork ribs for a different flavor profile.
2. Broth: Use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you don’t have beef broth.
3. Red Wine: Substitute with additional beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.

Variations:

1. Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
2. Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin sauce in place of the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower mash or steamed vegetables instead of mashed potatoes or rice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Beef Short Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Season Ribs: Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
2. Chop Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear Short Ribs: Add the short ribs to the pot and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build Flavor

1. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Broth and Herbs: Add the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Braise the Ribs

1. Return Ribs to Pot: Return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C).
3. Braise: Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove Herbs: Remove the thyme sprigs, rosemary sprigs, and bay leaves from the pot.
2. Serve: Serve the beef short ribs hot, with the braising liquid spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Searing the Ribs: Searing the ribs before braising adds depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture.
2. Skipping the Deglaze: Deglazing the pot with wine or broth lifts all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
3. Cooking at Too High a Temperature: Slow cooking at a lower temperature ensures the ribs become tender and flavorful.
4. Overcrowding the Pot: Sear the ribs in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper browning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Beef Short Ribs

1. Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot.
2. Pair with Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Garnish: Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for Beef Short Ribs

1. Rustic Platter: Serve the dish on a large rustic platter for a family-style meal.
2. Individual Plates: For a more formal setting, plate individual portions with a generous spoonful of the sauce.
3. Colorful Garnishes: Use vibrant garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Beef Short Ribs Recipe Tips

1. Prep Ahead: Season and sear the ribs in advance to save time on cooking day.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs enhance the flavor of the dish.
3. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving.
4. Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered on the stovetop until it reaches your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare Beef Short Ribs ahead of time. Store the cooked ribs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I freeze Beef Short Ribs?
A: Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: To make this dish in a slow cooker, follow the steps for searing the ribs and sautéing the vegetables. Transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the broth and herbs, and cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Q: What can I use instead of red wine?
A: You can use additional beef broth, grape juice, or a splash of balsamic vinegar as a substitute for red wine.

Q: Can I use boneless short ribs?
A: Yes, boneless short ribs can be used in this recipe. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for tenderness periodically.

Conclusion

Our Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe is a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, a rich sauce, and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Follow our recipe and tips for a foolproof short rib dish that will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure and don’t forget to share your variations and tips with us!

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