Irresistible Braised Short Ribs Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Finest
There’s nothing quite like Braised Short Ribs to bring warmth and indulgence to your table. These fall-off-the-bone ribs are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory sauce that elevates a simple cut of meat into a gourmet meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special weekend treat, this recipe is a surefire way to impress. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try and how you can make it perfectly every time.
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Ingredients
For the Short Ribs:
9 short ribs (bone-in): These are the star of the dish, offering deep flavor and tender meat that melts in your mouth.
2 tablespoons bacon grease: Adds a smoky depth and helps achieve a perfect sear.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
1 large onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a base for the sauce.
2 carrots, diced: Adds a subtle earthy sweetness.
2 celery stalks, diced: Balances the flavors with a hint of bitterness.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Boosts the dish with aromatic depth.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds richness and helps thicken the sauce.
2 cups red wine (dry): Provides acidity and complexity, tenderizing the meat as it cooks.
2 cups beef broth: Builds the body of the braising liquid.
2 sprigs fresh thyme and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary: Infuse the dish with a fragrant, herbaceous aroma.
2 bay leaves: Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce at the end.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Short Ribs
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and generously season them with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Ribs
Heat the bacon grease in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear the ribs in batches until all sides are deeply browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Assemble the Braise
Return the ribs to the pot and add the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. The liquid should cover the ribs about 3/4 of the way.
6. Braise in the Oven
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Cook for 2 ½ to 3 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn’t reduced too much. The ribs are done when the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Remove the ribs and strain the liquid into a saucepan.
Simmer over medium heat and whisk in the flour until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Unmatched Flavor: The combination of seared beef, red wine, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors.
Tender Perfection: Slow-cooking ensures the ribs are impossibly tender.
Comforting and Elegant: Perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
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Pro Tips for Success
Choose the Right Wine: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best.
Don’t Skip the Sear: This step locks in flavor and adds a beautiful crust to the ribs.
Plan Ahead: Braised short ribs taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen over time.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your Braised Short Ribs with:
Creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.
Buttery roasted vegetables for added texture.
Crusty bread for an easy and satisfying side.
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Conclusion
Braised Short Ribs are the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make. With their melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and luxurious flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite. This recipe simplifies the process while ensuring you achieve gourmet results every time.
Make this dish today and bring restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen. Your family and frien
ds will be asking for seconds, and you’ll savor the joy of creating an unforgettable meal. Try it now and elevate your cooking game!
