How to Make Tender Braised Beef Short Ribs
If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your fork into rich, melt-in-your-mouth meat that’s bursting with flavor, then this Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is going to be your new favorite. Braised Beef Short Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, slow-cooked to tender perfection and infused with a deep, savory sauce. This recipe will guide you through every step to create juicy, fall-off-the-bone beef that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable tenderness: Slow braising turns tough short ribs into irresistibly soft, tender bites.
- Deep, rich flavor: The combination of savory ingredients creates a complex, mouthwatering sauce.
- Simple ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find components—just straightforward pantry staples.
- Versatile dish: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.
- Impress guests effortlessly: This recipe looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these essential ingredients that come together beautifully to develop rich flavors and tender texture. Each one plays a key role, whether enhancing the sauce or enriching the meat’s natural juiciness.
- Beef short ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Salt and pepper: For simple seasoning that brings out the beef’s natural taste.
- Vegetable oil: Used for searing the meat to lock in juices and develop a caramelized crust.
- Onion, carrots, and celery: Classic mirepoix to add sweeter, aromatic depth.
- Garlic cloves: Boost the savory profile with fragrant, mellow garlic flavor.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with umami richness and a slight tang.
- Red wine: Adds acidity and complexity, perfect for tenderizing and flavor.
- Beef broth: The braising liquid’s base that keeps the meat moist and infused with hearty taste.
- Fresh herbs (thyme, bay leaves): Infuse subtle herbal notes that lift the overall flavor.
- Optional sugar or honey: A pinch to balance acidity and deepen caramelization.
Variations for Braised Beef Short Ribs
Feel free to customize this Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs. It’s a flexible dish that welcomes creativity without losing its comforting essence.
- Swap the wine: Use dark beer or non-alcoholic broth if you prefer a different flavor or avoid alcohol.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Change the vegetables: Include mushrooms, parsnips, or potatoes in the braising pot for extra heartiness.
- Use different herbs: Rosemary or sage bring unique, aromatic qualities to the dish.
- Make it dairy-free: Skip any butter or cream garnishes to keep it suitable for sensitive diets.
How to Make Braised Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Ribs
Start by patting the short ribs dry and generously seasoning them with salt and pepper on all sides. This simple step is crucial for developing a great crust and enhancing the natural beef flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy, oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on each side until deep brown and caramelized, about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning adds layers of flavor to the finished dish.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Remove the ribs temporarily and add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened and fragrant. Then, stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to develop the sauce base.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the browned bits on the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs
Return the ribs to the pot and pour in enough beef broth to cover halfway. Toss in fresh thyme and bay leaves, and add a touch of sugar or honey if desired to balance the acidity.
Step 6: Braise Low and Slow
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let the ribs braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is ultra-tender and nearly falling off the bone.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the ribs and strain or skim excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can reduce the sauce on the stovetop until thickened for a rich finish, then spoon it generously over the ribs before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Braised Beef Short Ribs
- Brown the meat well: Don’t rush searing; the deeper the crust, the more flavor in the final dish.
- Use an oven-safe pot: A Dutch oven or heavy casserole ensures even cooking and heat retention.
- Don’t skip the slow cook: Low and slow braising produces tenderness you won’t get any other way.
- Let the ribs rest: Allow meat to rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices before serving.
- Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste the sauce and add salt, pepper, or acid as needed before plating.
How to Serve Braised Beef Short Ribs
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top brings a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Serve these Braised Beef Short Ribs alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, shred the tender meat and use it in sliders or atop polenta for a rustic yet refined meal option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover ribs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to enjoy delicious seconds anytime.
Freezing
Freeze cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Warm the ribs gently on the stovetop or in the oven covered, adding a splash of broth if the sauce looks thick to prevent drying out.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Braised Beef Short Ribs?
The ribs need about 2.5 to 3 hours of braising time at low heat to become tender and flavorful, so plan ahead for slow cooking.
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
While short ribs are ideal for their fat content and tenderness when braised, chuck roast or beef shanks can be substituted but may yield slightly different textures.
Do I have to use red wine in the recipe?
Red wine adds acidity and depth, but you can substitute with beef broth or grape juice if avoiding alcohol without sacrificing too much flavor.
What is the best way to serve Braised Beef Short Ribs?
They pair wonderfully with creamy sides like mashed potatoes or buttered noodles that soak up the savory sauce perfectly.
Can Braised Beef Short Ribs be prepared in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for similar tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is truly a labor of love that delivers incredible results every time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that feels both special and comforting. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how tender, juicy, and flavorful beef can become when cooked with care. Your dinner guests and family will thank you generously!
