These tender short ribs are cooked slowly to make them melt-in-your-mouth delicious! The garlic herb sauce adds a yummy flavor that makes dinner feel special.
Honestly, who can resist falling-apart meat in a rich sauce? I always serve these with mashed potatoes to soak up every drop—it’s a total comfort meal! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: These are the star of the dish, bringing rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find short ribs, you can use chuck roast cut into chunks or beef shanks as substitutes.
Red Wine: Red wine adds depth and flavor. If you’d like to avoid it, substitute with an additional cup of beef broth or use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme really elevate this recipe. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried—just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more potent. About 1 teaspoon of each should do.
Butter: The butter adds richness to the sauce. You could substitute with olive oil if you want a healthier option.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Browning the Short Ribs?
Browning the short ribs is crucial for developed flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot pan to get a nice sear. Add oil right before the meat to prevent it from burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; browning needs space! Do it in batches if necessary.
- Let the ribs sear without moving them for a few minutes for a good crust. Turn them just once for even browning.
These steps help create a flavorful base that enhances the overall dish. Happy cooking!
Tender Slow Cooked Short Ribs in Garlic Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes for prep and 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking. In total, set aside about 3 to 3.5 hours to enjoy tender, flavorful short ribs that are perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Short Ribs:
Start off by seasoning the short ribs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This step is key for tasty meat!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs and brown them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Get a nice crust going for extra flavor. When they’re brown, remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become softened and fragrant, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Stir them around occasionally so they don’t burn!
4. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and keep cooking for about 1 minute to combine the flavors. Yum!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Now, pour in the red wine, if you’re using it, and scrape up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce for 2-3 minutes. This step helps bring out rich flavors in the sauce.
6. Create the Flavorful Base:
Add the beef broth, chopped rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf to the pan. Mix it well and then place the short ribs back into the pan, making sure they’re nestled in the liquid.
7. Slow Cook the Ribs:
Cover with a lid, lower the heat, and let it simmer gently for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is super tender and falls off the bone easily!
8. Finish the Sauce:
Once cooked, take out the short ribs and keep them warm. Discard the bay leaf from the sauce. Stir in butter and let it simmer for 5 more minutes to thicken slightly.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Pour the garlic herb sauce over the short ribs. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy these rich, tender short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! If you can’t find short ribs, you can use chuck roast or beef shanks. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, as different cuts may vary in tenderness and cooking duration.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Red Wine?
Yes, you can easily omit the red wine. Substitute it with an additional cup of beef broth or use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity to maintain depth in flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can brown the short ribs and prepare the sauce a day ahead, then refrigerate them separately. Reheat gently on the stove before serving for best results.
