Beef short ribs are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, tender meat that falls right off the bone, coated in a rich, savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas, making it impossible to resist the anticipation of that first bite.

I remember the first time I attempted to make beef short rib recipes; my friends thought I had gone gourmet on them. The laughter and joy that filled my home as we devoured those ribs were unforgettable. Perfect for cozy dinners or sophisticated gatherings, these ribs guarantee an amazing flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef short rib recipe is easy to prepare and delivers incredible flavors that will impress everyone at your table
- The beautiful presentation makes it ideal for special occasions, while its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides
- Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible
Sharing this dish with family always leads to delighted reactions and requests for seconds. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Short Ribs: Look for well-marbled ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor; bone-in is preferred for richness.
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Onions: Use yellow onions for their natural sweetness that develops beautifully when caramelized.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic powerhouse.
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Beef Broth: A good quality broth enhances flavor; low-sodium versions allow better control over saltiness.
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Tomato Paste: This adds umami and richness; choose high-quality paste for best results.
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Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine complements the richness of the meat; opt for something you enjoy drinking.
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): These herbs brighten flavors; fresh is best but dried works in a pinch.
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Sugar: A touch of sugar balances acidity from tomatoes and wine; brown sugar adds additional depth.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preferences before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for a delightful cooking adventure that will fill your home with irresistible aromas!
Create Your Flavor Base: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add a splash of oil until shimmering. Sear the beef short ribs on all sides until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Add Aromatics: Once browned, remove the ribs and toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the pot. Stir until the onions soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes. Enjoy the fragrant scent filling your kitchen!
Add Layers of Flavor: Return the short ribs to the pot. Add tomato paste, stirring until everything is well coated. Pour in red wine and beef broth, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
Add Sweetness and Herbs: Stir in sugar along with thyme and rosemary sprigs for an aromatic finish. Bring everything to a simmer before covering tightly with a lid.
Braise Low and Slow: Transfer your Dutch oven to the preheated oven and let it braise for about 3 hours or until you can easily shred the meat with a fork. Check occasionally if you need more broth or water.
Enjoy crafting this delicious dish that promises warmth, comfort, and plenty of happy taste buds!
You Must Know
- Beef short rib recipes are not just for special occasions; they can transform any dinner into a feast
- The rich aroma fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in
- Cooking these ribs low and slow ensures tender meat that falls off the bone, creating a mouthwatering experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the beef short ribs well and searing them to lock in flavor. Then, braise them slowly with your choice of liquids and aromatics for optimum tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional seasonings with your favorites or add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete meal. Experimenting can reveal delightful new flavors that make the dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on low heat to maintain their juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When searing beef short ribs, allow them to brown without moving them too soon; patience leads to better crusts
- Always taste for seasoning during cooking, adjusting as needed for a balanced flavor profile
- Finally, let them rest before serving; it allows juices to redistribute beautifully
Sharing my first attempt at beef short ribs still brings a smile. My friends devoured every bite, and I felt like a culinary rock star!
FAQ
What is the best way to season beef short ribs?
Use salt, pepper, and your favorite spices; let it marinate for extra flavor.
Can I cook beef short ribs in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Slow cookers work wonders for tenderizing beef short ribs over several hours.
How do I know when beef short ribs are done?
They should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone when properly cooked.
Beef Short Ribs
Beef short ribs are the ultimate comfort food, delivering tender, fall-off-the-bone meat enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for cozy gatherings or elegant dinners, this recipe is simple yet impressive, promising delightful flavors and enticing aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds. Prepare to indulge in a dish that transforms any meal into a feast!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (full-bodied)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp sugar (brown sugar preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat and sear beef short ribs on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove ribs and set aside.
- Add onions and garlic to the pot; sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Return short ribs to the pot. Stir in tomato paste until well coated. Pour in red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add sugar, thyme, and rosemary; bring to a simmer. Cover tightly with a lid.
- Braise in the preheated oven for about 3 hours or until meat is fork-tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg