Braised Short Ribs

Introduction

Unbelievably tender and bursting with rich, savory flavor, Braised Short Ribs are the perfect recipe when you want to impress at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to an unforgettable meal. These short ribs transform inexpensive cuts of beef into a luxurious dish featuring melt-in-your-mouth meat, a deep and aromatic sauce, and a touch of elegance that works for special occasions or cozy Sunday suppers alike.

Why Braised Short Ribs Stand Out

The magic behind braised short ribs lies in the slow-cooking process, which gently breaks down tough fibers, resulting in succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat. Meanwhile, the aromatics, herbs, wine, and stock mingle to create a sauce that’s both intensely flavorful and velvety in texture. It’s a dish that always draws compliments—and, once in the oven, the hands-on effort is minimal.

Creating a Flavorful Vegetable Base

A great braise starts with a mirepoix: a classic mixture of chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Achieve consistent, even cuts for optimal cooking by using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper. This not only speeds up prep but ensures every bite bursts with flavor as the vegetables caramelize in the pot’s early stages.

Perfect Browning and Braising

To ensure deep flavors, thoroughly brown the short ribs before braising. For the task, reach for a trusty Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Black—it retains and distributes heat beautifully, giving your ribs a deliciously caramelized crust. Sear the meat in small batches for best results.

After browning, remove the ribs and sauté your veggies directly in the same pan, scraping up fond (those tasty browned bits). Add your braising liquids (red wine and beef broth), then nestle the ribs back in, cover, and let the oven work its magic.

Slow Cooking for Ultimate Tenderness

Slowing things down is key to the rich texture and taste that defines this dish. Transfer your covered casserole to a low oven and let it cook for several hours; for extra precision, check for doneness with a reliable ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking—the meat should be fork-tender and near 200°F internally.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Braise short ribs are best served atop mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered noodles, allowing the sauce to soak into every layer. Any leftovers stay fresh in an airtight Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container, so you can savor those rich flavors all week—or freeze for a future meal.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This hearty recipe yields about 6 servings. Each portion delivers protein-packed satisfaction and a balanced amount of healthy vegetables, though it’s on the decadent side—ideal as a special treat.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high and add olive oil. Brown the short ribs in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate.
3. Add the onion, carrots, and celery (prepped with your vegetable chopper) to the skillet. Cook until vegetables soften and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste; cook 2 minutes more.
4. Pour in red wine, scraping up the browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
5. Return the short ribs to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetables and liquid. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
6. Transfer to the oven and braise for 2.5–3 hours, until short ribs are fork-tender. Use a digital meat thermometer to check if needed—the internal temperature should approach 200°F.
7. Discard herb stems and bay leaves. Skim excess fat from the surface, garnish with parsley, and serve hot over your choice of mashed potatoes, polenta, or noodles.
8. Store any leftovers in an airtight food storage container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Braised Short Ribs (Recap)

Braised Short Ribs turn a humble cut into a showstopper by layering deep, complex flavors over hours of gentle cooking. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll master a dish that’s equally at home at elegant feasts or relaxing family meals. Serve with your favorite sides and let the slow-cooked sauce steal the spotlight.