Braised Beef Short Ribs

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Deliciously Tender Braised Beef Short Ribs: Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Are you on the lookout for a dish that warms your soul and impresses your loved ones? Look no further! Braised beef short ribs are here to steal the culinary spotlight, and I promise not to make it a melodramatic affair. These luscious morsels of meat transform into a delightful meal that might just make you the star of your own kitchen stage—or at least the family dinner table!

Why You’ll Love Braised Beef Short Ribs

Let’s face it: the hustle and bustle of life can feel like a circus sometimes. Between work deadlines, carpooling kids, and the endless laundry mountain, finding the time to whip up a wholesome meal can feel daunting. Fear not, fellow multitaskers! This recipe for braised beef short ribs offers a flavorful respite. Simply pop them in the oven and let the magic happen while you put your feet up (or tackle that laundry mountain…we won’t judge!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we roll up our sleeves and dive into cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this irresistible dish:

  • 4 lbs of beef short ribs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (the kind you’d drink, not just any old bottle)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme works too!)
  • Bay leaves

The Steps to Take

Are you ready to bring this delicious vision to life? Let’s get cooking!

  1. Prep Your Ribs:
    Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Don’t skimp on this step—you’ll want that flavor to permeate every tasty bite.

  2. Sear the Meat:
    In a large Dutch oven (or heavy pot), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the short ribs and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden crust. Don’t rush this process; it adds depth to your dish.

  3. Sauté the Veggies:
    After removing the ribs, toss the onion, carrots, and celery into the pot. Cook them until they soften, about 5 minutes. This fragrant medley is music to your kitchen symphony!

  4. Enhance with Garlic:
    Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, chanting, “I can smell dinner!”.

  5. Find Your Flavor:
    Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those flavorful bits. Trust me, if you don’t taste a little wine during this step, you’re doing it wrong!

  6. Bring It Together:
    Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

  7. Meet the Oven:
    Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in that beautiful sauce. Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 350°F.

  8. Set It and Forget It:
    Let it braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender. Your entire house will smell divine—consider it an aromatic hug for the senses!

  9. Serve with Style:
    Once it’s out of the oven, remove the bay leaves (Hey, that’s not a side dish!). Serve the ribs alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a lovely crusty bread, and watch everyone swoon in delight.

Cooking Tips

  • Don’t Sweat It! If your sauce looks a bit lumpy, don’t worry! It’s just the beauty of homemade cooking. You can always use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
  • Wine Not? Can’t have wine? Use a splash of vinegar or extra beef broth instead; you’ll still capture that robust flavor.

A Little Personal Touch

I remember the first time I tried this recipe; it became an instant hit! My family devoured every bite, asking for seconds…and thirds. It’s funny how one dish can create comfort and community around the dinner table. I like to think I’ve turned my cooking journey into a family tradition, one meal at a time.

FAQs About Braised Beef Short Ribs

Can I substitute the red wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, feel free to replace it with extra beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for prolonged enjoyment (although I can’t imagine there will be much left!).

Wrapping It Up

Braised beef short ribs are a fantastic comfort food you can share with loved ones, perfect for a quiet Sunday dinner or any evening when you crave something hearty. So gather your ingredients, roll up those sleeves, and dive into this rewarding cooking adventure. Your kitchen—and your taste buds—will thank you! Happy cooking, friends!


Meta Description: Braised Beef Short Ribs is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!

For more mouthwatering ideas, don’t forget to check out my other comfort food recipes!

Braised Beef Short Ribs

A sumptuous dish of braised beef short ribs that transforms into a comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 lbs beef short ribs
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (the kind you’d drink)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 bay leaves

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once hot, add the short ribs and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Remove the ribs and toss in the onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
  6. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release flavorful bits.
  7. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Return short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
Cooking
  1. Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 350°F.
  2. Let it braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Serving
  1. Remove bay leaves and serve the ribs alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Notes

If your sauce looks lumpy, use an immersion blender for a smoother texture. Replace wine with vinegar or extra broth for a non-alcoholic version.