Braised Beef Short Ribs: 7 Steps to Perfect Comfort Food

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Braised Beef Short Ribs are a hearty dish featuring tender meat that melts in your mouth, cooked in red wine and aromatic vegetables. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering rich flavors that will impress your family and friends. The process of braising allows the beef to absorb all the wonderful flavors, resulting in a delicious beef short ribs dish that embodies comfort food at its best. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey and learn how to make the perfect braised beef short ribs.

Why You’ll Love This Braised Beef Short Ribs

This braised beef ribs recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

Deliciously tender meat that falls off the bone.
Rich, deep flavors developed through slow-cooking.
Simple ingredients that create an extravagant dish.
Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Comforting and satisfying, ideal for colder months.
Easy to prepare ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Pairs wonderfully with sides, enhancing the overall meal.

Ingredients for Braised Beef Short Ribs

Gather these items:

4 lbs beef short ribs (bone-in)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion (chopped)
2 carrots (chopped)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 bay leaf

How to Make Braised Beef Short Ribs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Step 2: Pat the beef short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Add the short ribs in batches, searing them on all sides until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Step 5: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 6: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 7: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce by half (about 10 minutes).
Step 8: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 9: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Step 10: Carefully remove the pot from the oven. Discard the bay leaf and herb sprigs, and let the short ribs rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 11: Serve the short ribs with the braising liquid spooned over the top, paired with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Braised Beef Short Ribs

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, use a full-bodied red wine.
Allow the short ribs to rest for best texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For an easy braised short ribs meal, prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Braised Beef Short Ribs

Pair these slow-cooked beef short ribs with hearty sides:

Mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.
Polenta for a creamy, comforting addition.
Crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Braised Beef Short Ribs

To ensure the best flavor and texture for meal prep:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braised Beef Short Ribs

What’s the secret to perfect Braised Beef Short Ribs?

The secret to perfect braised beef short ribs lies in the slow cooking process. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become exceptionally tender.

Can I make Braised Beef Short Ribs ahead of time?

Yes! One of the best features of this beef short ribs recipe is that it can be made ahead. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Braised Beef Short Ribs?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you sear the ribs properly for flavor and don’t rush the braising process; low and slow is the best way to cook beef short ribs.

Variations of Braised Beef Short Ribs You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

Try using different herbs like oregano or sage for a unique flavor.
Substitute the red wine with a stout for a different depth of flavor.
Make it in a pressure cooker for a faster cooking time while keeping it tender.

For more delicious recipes, check out Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie or Creamy Cajun Sausage and Potato Soup. If you’re looking for a great side, try Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for a delightful pairing!