Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

There’s something magical about the aroma of braised short ribs with red wine wafting through the house. It takes me back to family gatherings, where the kitchen was the heart of our home. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace after a long day. Perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself, these tender, flavorful ribs are a hearty solution for any occasion. With minimal prep and a slow-cooked finish, you can savor the rich flavors without spending all day in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

This dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or special occasions. The beauty of braised short ribs lies in their simplicity. You can toss everything into one pot and let the oven do the magic. The result? Tender, fall-off-the-bone meat infused with rich, deep flavors. Plus, the aroma will have your family gathering around the table, eager to dig in. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients for Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable dish. For this braised short ribs with red wine recipe, you’ll need a few key players that come together to create a symphony of flavors.

• Beef short ribs: The star of the show! These cuts are rich and marbled, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
• Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold helps to sear the ribs, locking in those delicious juices.
• Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, creating a flavorful base.
• Carrots: Diced carrots bring a hint of sweetness and a pop of color to the pot.
• Celery: This aromatic vegetable adds a subtle earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a robust aroma and a savory kick.
• Red wine: Choose a dry variety for the best results. It adds acidity and richness, elevating the dish to new heights.
• Beef broth: This provides a savory liquid base, ensuring the ribs stay moist and flavorful during cooking.
• Tomato paste: A tablespoon of this concentrated goodness adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves (or dried) bring a fragrant herbal note that complements the beef beautifully.
• Bay leaves: These leaves add a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the braising liquid.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples help to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is a lovely garnish that adds a fresh touch and a pop of color when serving.

For those looking to experiment, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of flavor or a few sprigs of rosemary for a fragrant twist. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get cooking! This process is straightforward, and I promise the results will be worth every minute. Let’s dive into the steps for making these delicious braised short ribs with red wine.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribs. While the oven warms up, season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor and sets the stage for the deliciousness to come.

Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs

In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the short ribs to the pot. Sear them on all sides until they’re beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This caramelization adds depth to the dish. Once browned, remove the ribs and set them aside. Don’t rush this step; it’s where the magic begins!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful base that will elevate your braised short ribs.

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

Now comes the fun part! Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release those delicious browned bits. This process, known as deglazing, adds incredible flavor to your dish. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce by half, which should take about 10-15 minutes. The wine will concentrate, intensifying the flavors of your braising liquid.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once the wine has reduced, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and the seared short ribs back into the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Braise in the Oven

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let the short ribs braise for 2.5 to 3 hours. The low heat will break down the tough fibers in the meat, making it tender and juicy. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is falling off the bone. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the braising is complete, carefully remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute. Before serving, discard the bay leaves. Spoon the rich braising liquid over the short ribs and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve these beauties over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a truly comforting meal!

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a rich flavor to the ribs.
• Use a good quality red wine; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Let the dish rest after cooking to enhance the flavors.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; every palate is different.
• Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe pot or Dutch oven: Essential for braising. A heavy skillet can work in a pinch.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and deglazing. A silicone spatula is a great alternative.
• Measuring cups: For accurate liquid measurements. You can use a standard drinking cup if needed.
• Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables. A good pair of kitchen scissors can also do the trick.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vegetable mix for a bit of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute short ribs with hearty mushrooms like portobello or a mix of root vegetables for a plant-based version.
• Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the wine.
• Beer Braised: Swap out red wine for a rich stout or porter for a different depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the braised short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting base.
• Pair with a robust red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the dish.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious touch.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.

FAQs about Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

Can I use a different type of wine for braising short ribs?

Absolutely! While a dry red wine is ideal, you can experiment with other varieties like Merlot or even a bold white wine. Just remember, the better the wine, the better the flavor of your dish!

How do I know when the short ribs are done?

The best indicator is tenderness. When the meat is falling off the bone and easily pulls apart with a fork, you know your braised short ribs with red wine are ready to serve. It’s all about that melt-in-your-mouth texture!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, braised short ribs often taste even better the next day. Just let them cool, store in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

What can I serve with braised short ribs?

These ribs shine when paired with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or even a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables adds a nice touch, too!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This braised short ribs with red wine recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your beef broth and any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free to keep it safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Cooking braised short ribs with red wine is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The rich, savory aroma fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite of tender meat, infused with deep flavors, brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish delivers warmth and joy. I hope you find as much pleasure in making it as I do. So roll up your sleeves, pour yourself a glass of that red wine, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen!

Print