Braised Beef Short Ribs

Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Introduction

Braised Beef Short Ribs is a classic, comfort food that combines rich flavors, tender meat, and a savory sauce. The slow-braising process makes the beef incredibly tender, and the dish’s deep, savory flavor is perfect for any special occasion or a cozy dinner. This recipe is easy to make but will leave everyone thinking it came from a five-star restaurant.

Ingredients:

5 – 6 beef short ribs (300-400g / 10-14 oz each)
1.5 tsp salt (divided)
1.5 tsp black pepper (divided)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 large onion, chopped
1 cup red wine (optional but adds richness)
4 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

Prepare the Short Ribs:

Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper on all sides.

Brown the Meat:

Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs and brown them on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove the short ribs and set them aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened (about 5 minutes). Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring to combine.

Deglaze the Pot:

Pour in the red wine (if using) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.

Add Broth and Herbs:

Add the beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir everything together, then return the browned short ribs to the pot. The liquid should almost cover the meat. If not, add more broth or water.

Braise:

Bring the liquid to a simmer. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. You can also cook it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for the same time.

Optional: Thicken the Sauce:

Once the short ribs are tender, remove them from the pot and set aside. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove 1 cup of the braising liquid, whisk in the flour, then return it to the pot. Stir and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve:

Serve the short ribs with the sauce spooned over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, polenta, or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli.

History of Braised Beef Short Ribs:

Short ribs have been a staple in many culinary traditions around the world, from the United States to Korea. Braising, the method of slow-cooking meat in a liquid, has been used for centuries to tenderize tougher cuts of meat. In the U.S., short ribs became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly in comfort food recipes like this one. This dish combines European techniques with American ingredients for a dish that’s both hearty and deeply flavorful.

Health Benefits:

Rich in Protein: Beef short ribs provide high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Iron Content: Beef is an excellent source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and vital for maintaining healthy blood.
Collagen: The slow-braising process helps release collagen from the meat, which is beneficial for joint and skin health.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450-550 kcal (depending on portion size)
Protein: 40-50g
Fat: 30-35g
Carbohydrates: 5-8g (from vegetables and wine)
Iron: 15-20% of daily recommended intake

Conclusion:

Braised Beef Short Ribs is a hearty, flavorful dish that is perfect for anyone who enjoys rich, tender meats. The slow-cooking process not only makes the beef fall-off-the-bone tender but also allows the flavors to meld together in a delicious and savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking for a comforting meal, this dish will not disappoint.

For the Lovers of Braised Beef:

If you’re a fan of braised meats, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its rich flavor, tender texture, and versatility make it a favorite among beef lovers. Serve it at family gatherings or enjoy it on a quiet evening for a truly satisfying meal.