Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Ingredients

Bone-in Beef Short Ribs

The star of this **Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe** is the _bone-in beef short ribs_ themselves. These tender and flavorful cuts come from the ribcage area of a cow, typically from the 6th to 12th ribs. They are characterized by their rich marbling, which is the intermingling of fat throughout the meat.

The quality and type of _beef short ribs_ you choose will greatly impact the final dish. Look for ribs that are slightly firmer in texture than others, as this will indicate more marbling and a richer flavor. You can also opt for either English, American, or Spanish-style beef short ribs, depending on your personal preference.

The ideal cut of _beef short ribs_ is typically 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm) thick and has about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) of fat between the meat and bone. This layer of fat will help to keep the meat moist during cooking.

When selecting your _bone-in beef short ribs_, try to find a pack that includes at least 5-7 bones, as these will make for a more tender and flavorful dish in the end.

Avoid any cuts with an excessive amount of bone or cartilage, as this can make them difficult to cook evenly. Also, be sure to choose ribs that are fresh and have a pleasant, earthy aroma.

1.52 pounds

The ingredients for the Simple Beef Short Ribs recipe are as follows:

Beef Short Ribs (about 1.52 pounds): These can be either beef chuck short ribs or beef flanken-style short ribs.

2 tablespoons Olive Oil: This will be used to brown the short ribs in a skillet.

1 large Onion, diced: This adds flavor and texture to the dish.

3 cloves Garlic, minced: This enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

2 cups Red Wine: A good red wine is essential for this recipe as it will be used to create a rich, savory sauce.

1 cup Beef Broth: This adds moisture and helps to keep the short ribs tender.

1 tablespoon Tomato Paste: This adds depth of flavor and richness to the dish.

2 bay leaves: These add a subtle, slightly bitter flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Salt and Pepper: Used to season the dish to taste.

Optional:

• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar

Note: The amount of salt, pepper, thyme, and brown sugar can be adjusted according to personal preference.

It’s worth noting that the ingredients are relatively simple, but the quality of each ingredient will have a significant impact on the final result. Using high-quality beef short ribs, red wine, and other ingredients will help to create a rich, flavorful sauce and tender short ribs.

Aromatics

The foundation of any delicious dish starts with the quality and variety of ingredients used, which is particularly true for a simple yet mouth-watering Beef Short Ribs recipe.

For this specific dish, we will focus on selecting the right type of meat, as well as other essential ingredients that complement its rich flavor profile.

**Meat:**

The star of our show here are the *_Beef Short Ribs_*, which come from the chuck or rib section of a cow. These tender and juicy ribs are perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising or stewing, as they become fall-off-the-bone tender.

**Aromatics:**

Aromatics play a vital role in enhancing the flavor of our dish by adding layers of depth and complexity. The following ingredients serve as aromatics:

• *_Onion_*: A classic choice for many recipes, onions add a pungent flavor that pairs beautifully with beef. You can use either yellow or white onions, whichever you prefer.
• *_Carrots_*: Sliced or chopped carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. They also help to balance out the richness of the short ribs.
• *_Celery_*: The *_celery_* adds a fresh and herbaceous note that complements the savory flavor of the beef.
• *_Garlic_*: A bulbous friend, *_garlic_* is known for its bold and pungent flavor. Mince or chop it to release its essence into our dish.

**Other Essential Ingredients:**

We’ll also need some basic pantry staples like:

• *_Tomato paste_*, which adds a concentrated burst of tomato flavor
• _*Dried thyme_*, for its subtle, earthy undertones
• _*Red wine_*, which serves as both a cooking liquid and an ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile

In summary, our simple Beef Short Ribs recipe requires the following ingredients: high-quality beef short ribs, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, tomato paste, dried thyme, and red wine.

* 2 medium onions

When it comes to preparing a mouth-watering dish like the simple beef short ribs recipe, choosing the right ingredients is crucial. One of the key components that will bring depth and flavor to your dish is the onions. Specifically, you’ll need 2 medium-sized onions.

In this case, “medium” refers to an onion that has a diameter of approximately 1-1.5 inches when sliced in half at its widest point. This size onion will provide a good balance between sweetness and pungency without overpowering the dish with too much intensity from the onions themselves.

When selecting your onions, look for ones that have a smooth, even skin without any visible blemishes or bruises. The color of the onions can vary depending on their variety, but in general, they should be firm and slightly springy to the touch.

If you’re planning ahead and want to use these onions for your short ribs recipe later in the week, feel free to chop them up immediately and store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use them. This way, you can save time during cooking by already having the onions prepared.

* 4 cloves of garlic

The ingredients for this simple beef short ribs recipe are straightforward and focused on enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.

To start, you’ll need 4 cloves of garlic, which will add a pungent flavor to the dish. It’s essential to mince or crush the garlic before adding it to the pot to prevent large chunks from being noticeable in the finished sauce.

The aromatic qualities of garlic are also crucial in balancing out the richness of the short ribs, so make sure not to skip this ingredient. Simply peel and chop 4 cloves into a fine paste using a chef’s knife or a press.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, so avoid over-accessorizing with additional ingredients that might detract from the meat’s natural flavors. For instance, instead of relying on store-bought seasonings, opt for fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to infuse your beef short ribs with a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.

When it comes to selecting garlic for cooking, look for bulbs that have not been treated with chemicals or pesticides. If you’re unsure about the source of your garlic, consider growing your own at home or purchasing it from a trusted local farmer’s market.

In addition to garlic, this recipe also calls for other essential ingredients like beef short ribs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red wine. But remember, the key to achieving tender and fall-off-the-bone meat lies in the quality of your ingredients as well as the slow cooking process.

To ensure that your garlic adds a depth of flavor rather than overpowering the dish, sauté it with onions or other aromatics before adding the short ribs to the pot. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory sauce that coats each piece of meat.

Remember to chop your garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish, and consider mashing it slightly with a spoon or spatula before adding it to prevent any large pieces from being noticeable in the finished sauce.

In short, garlic is an essential component of this simple beef short ribs recipe. By using fresh, high-quality cloves, you’ll be able to add a rich, savory flavor that enhances the natural taste of the meat.

* 2 medium carrots

To prepare the Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe, you’ll need to start with two key ingredients that add natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.

The first ingredient we’re highlighting today is the 2 medium carrots.

Carrots are a root vegetable that belongs to the parsley family. They’re characterized by their bright orange color, cylindrical shape, and slightly tapered ends.

When selecting carrots for your recipe, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises or blemishes. The ideal size is around 1-2 inches in diameter, which is roughly the same size as a pencil or a pen.

The flavor profile of carrots is sweet, earthy, and slightly nutty. When cooked, they become tender and can be easily mashed or pureed to create a delicious accompaniment for your beef short ribs.

Cooking carrots is relatively easy, and they can be prepared in various ways depending on the desired texture and flavor. For this recipe, you’ll want to peel and chop the carrots into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot.

* 2 stalks celery

Celery is one of those ingredients that often gets overlooked when it comes to adding flavor and texture to a dish, but it’s an essential component in many recipes.

In the case of our Simple Beef Short Ribs recipe, 2 stalks of celery serve several purposes. Firstly, they add a fresh and crunchy element to the dish that complements the rich and tender beef ribs.

The celery also helps to balance out the bold flavors of the dish by adding a subtle sweetness and earthy undertone. When cooked, the celery becomes tender and its natural sugars are released, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the recipe.

When selecting celery for our Simple Beef Short Ribs recipe, look for stalks that have crisp, green leaves and firm, white bases. Avoid using wilted or yellowing celery, as it will not provide the same level of freshness and flavor to the dish.

To prepare the celery for the recipe, simply trim the ends and chop it into 1-inch pieces. This will make it easy to sauté with the onions and garlic in Step 2 of the recipe. Alternatively, you can also slice or julienne the celery if you prefer a more uniform texture.

As we cook down the beef short ribs and reduce the liquid in our Simple Beef Short Ribs recipe, the flavors will intensify and the celery will become almost imperceptible. However, its subtle contributions will have played a crucial role in balancing out the bold flavors of the dish and creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Sauces and Seasonings

The success of any dish often relies heavily on the quality and combination of ingredients, sauces, and seasonings used.

For a simple yet flavorful beef short ribs recipe, it’s essential to focus on the fundamental components that bring out the best in this tender cut of meat.

In terms of main ingredients, you’ll want to start with high-quality beef short ribs. Look for ones that are rich in marbling – those with a good balance of fat and lean meat will yield more tender and juicy results.

Onions and garlic are staple aromatics in many cuisines, including this simple beef short ribs recipe. These two ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish without overpowering the star of the show: the beef.

Other essential ingredients might include carrots, celery, and sometimes red wine or stock – all of which help create a rich, velvety sauce that complements the flavors of the short ribs.

Sauces in this context are often reductions of liquids such as beef broth or red wine. By allowing these liquids to simmer slowly over low heat for an extended period, you can reduce them into a deep, intense condiment that enhances the flavor profile of your dish.

Seasonings play a vital role in rounding out the flavors and aromas present in a given recipe. Common seasonings used in this simple beef short ribs recipe might include thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves – each contributing their own unique characteristics to the overall taste experience.

When it comes to sauces specifically, some recipes call for added ingredients such as tomato paste or olive oil. In the case of this simple beef short ribs recipe, you may choose to add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice towards the end of cooking – both of which will help brighten up the flavors and prevent the sauce from becoming too rich or heavy.

Ultimately, the key to mastering any dish lies in understanding how each ingredient, sauce, and seasoning interacts with one another to create a cohesive flavor profile that leaves a lasting impression on your palate.

* 2 cups red wine

To make this delicious Beef Short Ribs recipe, you will need a few essential ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is the beef short ribs, which should be about 4 pounds total.

You will also need some vegetables to add flavor and texture to the dish. These include:

* 2 cups red wine

* 1 large onion, chopped

* 3 cloves of garlic, minced

* 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped

* 2 stalks of celery, chopped

You will also need some pantry staples, such as:

* 1 cup brown sugar

* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

* 1 teaspoon dried thyme

* Salt and pepper to taste

Finally, you will need some fat to cook the short ribs in. You can use either olive oil or butter for this purpose.

* 2 tablespoons tomato paste

When it comes to the **Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe**, one crucial ingredient that adds depth and richness to the dish is the tomato paste. This concentrated form of tomatoes is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean and Italian cooking.

The role of tomato paste in this recipe cannot be overstated. It provides a burst of intense, tangy flavor that elevates the overall taste experience. To unlock its full potential, it’s essential to use high-quality tomato paste that is free from additives and preservatives.

The recommended amount for this recipe is 2 tablespoons, which may seem like a small quantity but packs a significant punch in terms of flavor. When using tomato paste, it’s essential to mix it with liquid ingredients, such as broth or wine, to create a smooth and velvety texture.

In the context of this recipe, the tomato paste will help balance the savory flavors from the beef short ribs and the rich flavors from the stock. It’s an integral component that brings harmony to the dish, making it a true delight for the senses.

* 1 cup beef broth

In the context of a simple beef short ribs recipe, one of the essential ingredients is beef broth. The quantity specified for this ingredient is 1 cup.

Characteristics and Uses of Beef Broth

• Beef broth is a liquid base used to add flavor and moisture to various dishes, including slow-cooked meats like short ribs.

• It can be homemade or store-bought, depending on personal preference and availability of time.

• The use of beef broth in cooking enhances the overall taste and helps to tenderize tougher cuts of meat like short ribs.

When selecting a beef broth for this recipe, consider factors such as the quality of ingredients used and any added flavorings or preservatives. Some options may include:

Tips for Choosing Beef Broth

• Opt for low-sodium broth to avoid adding excess salt to the dish.

• Consider using a high-quality, organic broth made from grass-fed beef for added nutritional benefits.

In summary, 1 cup of beef broth is a key ingredient in simple beef short ribs recipe. Its use provides flavor and moisture to the dish while tenderizing the meat.

* 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Dried thyme is a type of herb that is commonly used to add flavor to various dishes, including the Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe. It is made by drying fresh thyme leaves and stems, which are then processed into a powder or whole buds that can be easily stored and used as desired.

The amount of dried thyme required for this recipe is 1 teaspoon, which may seem like a small quantity but is sufficient to add depth and complexity to the flavor of the short ribs. Thyme has a slightly bitter and earthy taste, which pairs well with the rich and savory flavors of beef and other ingredients in the dish.

Dried thyme is typically obtained from the Lamiaceae family of plants, which includes over 200 species of herbs that are known for their distinctive leaves and fragrant flowers. Fresh thyme leaves are usually harvested in the summer months when they are at their peak flavor and fragrance, and then dried to preserve them for use throughout the year.

The drying process involved in producing dried thyme helps to concentrate the herb’s essential oils and flavors, making it more potent and easier to store than fresh thyme. This makes dried thyme a convenient ingredient to have on hand for cooking, especially when combined with other herbs and spices to create complex flavor profiles.

When using dried thyme in recipes like this Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe, it’s essential to remember that the herb’s flavor can become more pronounced over time. As the dish cooks, the thyme will infuse its flavors into the short ribs and sauce, creating a rich and satisfying taste experience.

The versatility of dried thyme also makes it a popular choice for many different types of dishes, from soups and stews to braises and roasted meats. Its mild flavor and aroma make it an excellent addition to various cuisines, including Mediterranean, French, and Italian cooking styles.

Overall, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme is a small but significant ingredient in this Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe, adding depth and complexity to the dish while complementing the rich flavors of beef, onions, carrots, celery, red wine, tomato paste, beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

The ingredients for this Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe include a variety of spices and seasonings that work together to create a rich, depth of flavor in the dish.

Spices and Seasonings

The recipe calls for the following spices and seasonings:

• Cumin: Ground cumin is used to add warmth and earthy flavor to the short ribs. It pairs well with the beef and helps to balance out the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the charred, caramelized flavor of the short ribs.
• Garlic powder: A small amount of garlic powder is used to add subtle depth and savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Onion powder: Like garlic powder, onion powder adds a hint of savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the short ribs.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is used to add a sharp, pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is added to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients and help to bring out the natural sweetness of the beef.

In addition to these spices and seasonings, the recipe calls for a few pantry staples:

• Brown sugar: A small amount of brown sugar is used to balance out the acidity in the tomato sauce and add a hint of sweetness to the short ribs.
• Tomato paste: A concentrated form of tomato puree, tomato paste adds intense flavor and depth to the dish. It’s essential for creating the rich, savory sauce that coats the short ribs.
• Red wine vinegar: A small amount of red wine vinegar is used to add a tangy, acidic flavor that helps to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Olive oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe. It adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the short ribs.

The final ingredient in this Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe is a block of beef short ribs. These are typically tougher cuts of meat that become tender and fall-apart when slow-cooked in liquid.

* Salt and black pepper

Salt is a crystalline mineral that plays a vital role in enhancing the flavor of various dishes, including our simple beef short ribs recipe. It is one of the most widely used seasonings globally, and its applications extend beyond cooking to preserving food and de-icing roads.

There are several types of salt available, with table salt being the most common. Table salt is refined from rock salt and has additives such as iodine to prevent iodine deficiency. However, when it comes to cooking, we prefer kosher salt or sea salt for their more nuanced flavor profiles.

Kosher salt, in particular, is prized for its flaky texture and mild taste. Its larger crystals allow for a more gradual release of flavor, making it ideal for seasoning dishes like our beef short ribs.

Black pepper, on the other hand, is the world’s most widely traded spice and an integral component of our recipe. It has been used for thousands of years to add depth and warmth to various cuisines. Unlike salt, black pepper comes from a flowering vine (Piper nigrum) that produces peppercorns.

The flavor profile of black pepper is more complex than that of salt, with notes of earthiness, bitterness, and a slightly sweet undertone. It pairs particularly well with beef, which is why it’s such an essential element in our simple beef short ribs recipe.

When using salt and black pepper in cooking, the key to achieving a balanced flavor lies in the ratio at which they are applied. Generally, it’s recommended to use three to four times more black pepper than salt. However, this can vary depending on personal taste preferences and the specific ingredients being used.

In our simple beef short ribs recipe, we’ll be using kosher salt and black pepper to add a subtle yet essential depth of flavor to the dish. By combining these two seasonings in moderation, we’ll create a rich and savory sauce that complements the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of the short ribs.

Instructions

Browning the Short Ribs

To successfully brown the short ribs for a delicious and tender beef short ribs recipe, follow these crucial steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs

Take your beef short ribs out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

This helps to prevent sudden heat shock during cooking, which can lead to uneven browning and toughness.

Step 2: Season the Short Ribs

• Season the short ribs all over with salt to bring out their natural flavors and textures. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of coarse kosher salt per pound of short ribs.
• Next, add your preferred seasonings such as black pepper, dried thyme, or any other herbs and spices that complement the beef flavor. Use about 1/4 teaspoon to 1/2 teaspoon per pound of short ribs.

Step 3: Sear the Short Ribs in a Hot Pan

• Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over high heat on your stovetop until it reaches a scorching temperature, ideally around 400°F (200°C).
• While waiting for the pan to heat up, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil such as canola or grapeseed to prevent smoking.
• Once hot, carefully place the short ribs in the pan and sear them on all sides until they develop a rich brown color. This should take about 5 minutes per side for thicker cuts and less time for thinner ones.

Step 4: Finish Browing in the Oven

• After searing the short ribs, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue browning them in the oven for another 20-30 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through.
• During this time, they will develop a more intense, dark-brown color from caramelizing sugars on their surface.

Step 5: Rest the Short Ribs Before Serving

• Once browned and cooked to your liking, remove the short ribs from the oven and let them rest in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
• This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender, juicy, and more flavorful.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly browned short ribs that are tender, rich, and full of flavor for your Simple Beef Short Ribs Recipe.

Brown the short ribs in a large Dutch oven over mediumhigh heat, until browned on all sides. Remove from pot.

To prepare a delicious and tender dish, it’s crucial to follow the proper instructions when cooking Brown short ribs. One of the essential steps in this process is browning the short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

The goal is to achieve a nice caramelized crust on all sides of the short ribs, which not only enhances their flavor but also helps to tenderize them during cooking. To do this, remove any excess fat from the short ribs and season them with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs or spices. This will help to promote even browning and add depth to the dish.

Once the Dutch oven is hot, carefully place the short ribs in the pot and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely Browned. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your Dutch oven and the number of short ribs you’re cooking.

After browning the short ribs, remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate. This is an essential step as it prevents the short ribs from continuing to cook and becoming tough. It also allows you to deglaze the pot and use those rich, flavorful bits of meat stuck to the bottom as part of your cooking liquid.

By following these instructions carefully and taking the time to properly Brown your short ribs, you’ll be on your way to creating a truly exceptional Beef Short Ribs Recipe that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Searing the Aromatics

To sear the aromatics for this simple beef short ribs recipe, start by preparing a few essential ingredients. You will need some onions, garlic, and ginger, which will provide the foundation of flavor for your dish.

First, peel and chop the onion into small, uniform pieces. For this recipe, it’s best to use a sweet or yellow onion, as they caramelize well and add a depth of flavor to your short ribs.

Next, peel the garlic cloves and mince them using a sharp knife. You can also use a press or a microplane to extract the maximum amount of flavorful compounds from the garlic.

Cut the ginger into thin slices, making sure to remove any excess fibers or nodes that may be present on the root end of the bulb. You want the ginger to cook evenly and infuse its flavor throughout your short ribs.

Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired smoke point. This will help prevent any burning or smoking flavors from developing in your dish.

Add the chopped onions to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent and start to caramelize. This should take around 10-12 minutes, depending on the heat level you’re using.

Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and oil. Cook for another minute, taking care not to burn the garlic or let it turn dark brown.

Add the sliced ginger to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics and oil. Continue cooking for a couple more minutes, until you notice that the ginger has softened slightly and infused its flavor into your dish.

Add oil to pot and sauté the aromatics until tender.

The first step in preparing a delicious beef short ribs dish involves adding oil to a pot, which serves as the primary cooking vessel for the aromatics and later the short ribs themselves. This initial addition of oil plays a crucial role in the overall taste and texture of the final product.

Once the oil has been added, the next step is to heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches the optimal temperature for sautéing. The choice of oil can greatly impact the flavor of the dish; commonly used oils include olive oil, vegetable oil, or a neutral-tasting oil such as canola.

With the oil heated and ready for use, the focus shifts to adding the aromatics – typically onions, garlic, and sometimes carrots or celery – to the pot. These ingredients are chosen not only for their flavor but also for their ability to enhance the overall aroma of the dish. Onions, in particular, are often used as a base due to their ability to caramelize and add depth to the final product.

Next, sauté the aromatics until they become tender, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat level and the desired level of tenderness. It’s crucial not to overcook the aromatics at this stage as it can cause them to lose their natural sweetness and make the dish taste bitter.

As the aromatics cook, they release a range of volatile compounds that contribute significantly to the overall aroma of the dish. This process is known as Maillard reaction, named after the French chemist Louis-Camille Maillard, who first described it in the early 20th century.

The Maillard reaction involves the interaction between amino acids and reducing sugars at high temperatures, leading to the formation of new flavor compounds and browning of the food. In this case, the aromatics are the key players, providing a rich, savory aroma that complements the short ribs perfectly.

Adding Liquid and Seasonings

To prepare this Simple Beef Short Ribs recipe, it’s essential to follow a few key steps when adding liquid and seasonings.

Adding Liquid:

• Start by placing the beef short ribs in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. This will help create a nice crust on the outside of the meat, which will eventually become tender and fall-off-the-bone.

• Next, add enough oil to the pot to cover the bottom, about 1-2 tablespoons. You can use any type of oil you prefer, such as vegetable or canola oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the short ribs in the pot, making sure not to overcrowd it.

• Allow the short ribs to sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice brown crust. This will help lock in the juices and flavors of the meat.

Once you’ve seared the short ribs, it’s time to add the liquid to the pot. You can use any type of liquid you prefer for this recipe, such as beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both. Here are some specific guidelines:

Option 1: Beef Broth

• Add about 2-3 cups of beef broth to the pot, making sure that the short ribs are completely covered.

• You can also add in some aromatics like onion and carrot if you prefer. Simply chop them up and sauté them in a bit of oil until they’re softened before adding the beef broth.

Option 2: Red Wine

• Add about 1-2 cups of red wine to the pot, making sure that the short ribs are completely covered.

• You can use any type of red wine you prefer, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Just be aware that using a cheaper bottle of wine may result in a slightly different flavor profile for your dish.

Adding Seasonings:

• Once the liquid is added to the pot, it’s time to add some seasonings to bring out the flavors of the short ribs. You can use any type of seasoning you prefer for this recipe, such as salt, pepper, thyme, or rosemary.

Option 1: Simple Seasoning

• Add about 1-2 teaspoons of salt and pepper to the pot, making sure that it’s evenly distributed throughout the liquid.

• You can also add in some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if you prefer. Simply chop them up and sprinkle them on top of the short ribs before serving.

Option 2: Spicy Seasoning

• Add about 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce, such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot, to the pot. This will give your short ribs a spicy kick that pairs well with the richness of the meat.

Return the short ribs to the pot, add red wine, tomato paste, beef broth, thyme, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

To complete this step, carefully remove the short ribs from the oven and return them to the pot in which they were browned. This will help to infuse the rich flavors developed during cooking back into the ribs themselves.

Next, add a generous amount of red wine to the pot. The acidity and tannins present in the wine will not only enhance the overall flavor profile but also help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and fall-off-the-bone.

In addition to the red wine, you’ll want to add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste. This concentrated form of tomatoes is rich in umami flavor, which will complement the beefy taste of the short ribs perfectly.

Now, pour in some beef broth – just enough to cover the ribs comfortably. The liquid will help to keep the meat moist and facilitate even cooking throughout the dish.

To round out the flavors, sprinkle some dried thyme over the short ribs. This herb is a classic pairing for red wine and beef, and its slightly earthy taste will tie everything together nicely.

Cumin adds a warm, aromatic quality to the dish that pairs particularly well with beef. Add a pinch of this spice to the pot to enhance the overall flavor experience.

Finally, season the short ribs with salt and black pepper to taste. These two essential seasonings will help bring out the natural flavors in the meat without overpowering them.

With all the ingredients added, give the pot a good stir to ensure everything is well combined, then cover it and let it cook for another 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Finishing Touches

Cooking Low and Slow

The finishing touches are where you add that je ne sais quoi to elevate a dish from good to great.

In cooking, particularly with dishes like our beloved beef short ribs, it’s all about layering flavors and textures.

When we cook low and slow, we’re not just tenderizing the meat, we’re also building depth in that sauce, infusing every last morsel with an unctuous richness that coats the palate.

So what are some finishing touches you can use to take your short ribs to the next level?

A drizzle of red wine glaze adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the fall-off-the-bone tender meat, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs brings a pop of color and fragrance.

You could also top it off with some crispy onions or croutons for added crunch, or maybe even a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce to add a kick of heat.

But what really puts the finishing touches on our short ribs is the reduction of that long-simmered braising liquid into a thick and syrupy glaze.

This concentrated flavor bomb coats each piece of meat in an intense, velvety blanket that’s nothing short of sublime.

And let’s not forget about the presentation – a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can add a touch of whimsy and visual interest to the finished dish.

So there you have it: with these simple yet effective finishing touches, your beef short ribs are sure to become the star of the show.

Cover the pot with a lid. Transfer to the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2 1/2 hours.

The final step in preparing delicious beef short ribs involves adding the finishing touches to ensure a rich, flavorful dish that falls off the bone.

To achieve this, follow these steps:

• Cover the pot with a lid: This is crucial for trapping the flavors and moisture inside the pot, allowing the short ribs to braise evenly.

• Transfer to the oven at 300°F (150°C): By moving the pot to a preheated oven, you’re ensuring that the heat is distributed consistently throughout the dish. This low-temperature cooking method breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and palatable.

• Cook for 2 1/2 hours: The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, and the short ribs to absorb all the goodness from the braising liquid. This patience will reward you with a fall-off-the-bone texture that’s simply irresistible.

Tending to the Meat

The final stage of preparing **_Beef Short Ribs_** requires careful attention to detail, as it can make a significant difference in the overall flavor and tenderness of the dish.

Once you’ve browned the _ribs_**, transfer them to a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. This will allow for even cooking and retention of juices.

Next, add some aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot, sautéing them until they’re softened and fragrant. This step will infuse the ribs with a rich, depth of flavor.

Add your choice of liquid to the pot – this could be stock, wine, or a combination of both. Be sure to cover the ribs completely, as they need to steam in their own juices to become tender.

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven, where the ribs will cook for about 2-3 hours, or until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. You can check on them periodically to ensure they’re not drying out.

While the ribs are cooking, prepare your choice of glaze or sauce. This could be a simple mixture of butter, thyme, and honey, or something more complex involving spices and herbs.

When the ribs are done, remove them from the pot and brush them with your glaze or sauce. Return the ribs to the pot for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finally, serve the short ribs hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. The key is to let the dish rest before serving, allowing all the juices to redistribute and intensify the flavor.

After cooking, remove from heat. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

The final stages of cooking are just as crucial as the preparation and actual cooking process when it comes to achieving perfection in a dish like simple beef short ribs. To ensure that your short ribs turn out tender and full of flavor, follow these steps for finishing touches.

After cooking your short ribs, remove them from the heat source. This could be the oven or stovetop, depending on the method you chose to cook your ribs.

Allowing the short ribs to rest is an essential step that’s often overlooked but plays a crucial role in the final texture and flavor of the dish. During this time, the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and easier to bite into.

To properly let your short ribs rest, place them on a plate or tray for 10 minutes before serving. This timeframe can vary depending on the size of the ribs and how long they’ve been cooking, but generally, 10 minutes is a good rule of thumb.

Why Resting Matters:

• Tenderization: The resting period allows the connective tissues in the meat to break down further, making it more tender and easier to chew. This process is especially important for tougher cuts like short ribs.
• Juice Redistribution: As the ribs rest, the juices within them redistribute, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and moist.

li>Flavor Enhancement: The resting period allows the flavors from any marinades or sauces used during cooking to meld together more deeply into the meat.

Following these steps will ensure that your simple beef short ribs turn out perfectly tender, full of flavor, and an absolute delight to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of culinary delights, this basic technique is sure to impress anyone who gets the chance to taste your dish.