Discover our mouthwatering Braised Short Ribs recipe! These Slow-Cooked Short Ribs in rich Red Wine deliver tender, flavorful bites perfect for any special occasion.

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Braised Short Ribs: 5 Irresistibly Delicious Slow-Cooked Red Wine Braised Ribs

If you’re searching for a comforting dinner that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, look no further than braised short ribs. These Slow-Cooked Short Ribs are rich in flavor and incredibly tender, thanks to the magical combination of red wine, herbs, and time. In this article, we’ll walk you through an unforgettable recipe for Red Wine Braised Ribs that will have your family and guests asking for seconds!

Why Choose Braised Short Ribs?

Braised Short Ribs stand out in the world of slow-cooked meats. The marbled fat in the ribs melts into the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple enough for even novice home cooks. The long, slow cooking time allows flavors to develop beautifully, making these short ribs a showstopper at any table.

Ingredients for Red Wine Braised Ribs

To create your own Slow-Cooked Short Ribs masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 pounds of bone-in beef short ribs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

By using quality ingredients, particularly a good bottle of red wine, your Braised Short Ribs will be elevated to a whole new level. For best practices in selecting wines for cooking, check this article from Food & Wine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow-Cooked Short Ribs

Step 1: Prep the Ribs

Season the Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides. This is essential for building the flavor base.
Sear the Ribs: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs, browning them on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Remove the ribs and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Sauté: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. This will create a rich foundation for your Red Wine Braised Ribs.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Combine

Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to remove any browned bits. This adds great flavor to your dish.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and brown sugar if using. Return the short ribs to the pot.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Braise: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the ribs braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Alternatively, you can transfer the pot to an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) and braise for the same amount of time.

Step 5: Serve

Once your Braised Short Ribs are ready, remove them from the pot, and let them rest for a few minutes. Strain the remaining liquid, discarding the vegetables and bay leaves. Serve the ribs with the sauce drizzled over the top. They pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread!

If you’re interested in more slow-cooked recipes, check out our guide to 10 Surefire Slow-Cooker Meals, which includes other delicious options.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Your Slow-Cooked Short Ribs will impress everyone at the dinner table. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices. For a deeper flavor profile, try adding juniper berries or folding in some mushrooms.

For extra tips and ideas on how to pair wines with your meals, please visit the Wine Institute for some expert guidance.

Join the Conversation!

Ready to let your taste buds indulge in these sensational Red Wine Braised Ribs? Try this recipe today and see why everyone raves about it. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using the hashtags #BraisedShortRibs and #SlowCookedShortRibs! We’d love to hear your feedback or any twists you added to the recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQ for "Braised Short Ribs: 5 Irresistibly Delicious Slow-Cooked Red Wine Braised Ribs"

1. Can I use a substitute for red wine in the Braised Short Ribs recipe?
Yes! If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with beef broth, grape juice, or a combination of both with a splash of vinegar for acidity. This will still yield flavorful Slow-Cooked Short Ribs without the alcohol.

2. How long should I cook the Red Wine Braised Ribs?
For optimal tenderness, the Red Wine Braised Ribs should be slow-cooked for about 3 to 4 hours on low heat. The longer the cooking time, the more tender the meat will become, making it perfect for a comforting family meal.

3. What is the best way to store leftover Braised Short Ribs?
To store leftover Slow-Cooked Short Ribs, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, it's best to separate the meat from the sauce to maintain texture.

4. Are there any dietary modifications I can make for the Braised Short Ribs?
For a healthier version of Slow-Cooked Short Ribs, you can use leaner cuts of beef, limit the amount of added salt, or increase the vegetables in the braise. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure the wine and broth used are certified gluten-free.

5. What are some great serving suggestions for Red Wine Braised Ribs?
These Braised Short Ribs are incredibly versatile! Serve them over creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or pasta. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness. Don't forget to drizzle the braising sauce over the serving for extra flavor!