When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to French Style Braised Short Ribs. This recipe brings together tender beef short ribs bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce that is both decadent and satisfying. Picture this: the beef is slowly braised until it melts in your mouth, creating a heavenly culinary experience. Whether enjoyed during a cozy family dinner or served at a special occasion, these short ribs are sure to impress. The combination of red wine, garlic, and hearty vegetables adds depth to the flavor, resulting in a dish that warms your soul.
Not only are French Style Braised Short Ribs a delight to eat, but they are also relatively simple to make. A slow cooking technique transforms this luxurious cut of beef into a tender masterpiece, leaving you with ample time to unwind while the dish simmers away. And with options available for slow cooking or oven braising, you can choose the method that fits your schedule best. As the aroma fills your kitchen, your family or guests will eagerly await a taste of this comforting dish.
Why You’ll Love This French Style Braised Short Ribs
This French Style Braised Short Ribs is more than just a meal; it’s an experience packed with flavor and warmth. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- Unmatched Tenderness: The slow cooking process break down the collagen in the beef, resulting in incredibly tender meat.
- Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of red wine, aromatics, and fresh herbs creates a savory sauce that’s perfect for pairing with various sides.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, horseradish mashed parsnips, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses straightforward ingredients, making it easy for home cooks to recreate this restaurant-quality dish.
- Meal prep friendly: You can cook it ahead of time, making it an excellent option for dinner parties or family meals.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start your culinary adventure with French Style Braised Short Ribs, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by ensuring you have a large oven-safe pot or a Dutch oven, as this will be crucial for browning the ribs and braising everything together. Additionally, a chopping board and sharp knife are necessary for cutting your vegetables and short ribs into manageable pieces. Keeping your ingredients prepped and within reach will streamline the cooking process.
Also, don’t forget your measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements. A ladle can be helpful for serving, and don’t overlook a good pair of tongs for flipping the short ribs without making a mess. To amplify flavors, consider having a roasting pan for the garlic, allowing you to elevate the dish further.
Ingredients
To whip up these irresistible French Style Braised Short Ribs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef short ribs, cut into 3–4 inch pieces
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups dry red wine (or additional broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 heads garlic, tops removed
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Short Ribs
Start the process by searing the short ribs. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces to the pot, allowing them to brown for about 3–4 minutes on each side. This step is crucial as it builds flavor. Once browned, take the ribs out and set them aside. Carefully drain most of the fat, leaving approximately 2 tablespoons in the pot for sautéing the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same pot, toss in the sliced onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and aromatic. At this stage, add the chopped garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Liquids and Herbs
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Return the browned short ribs to the pot along with all the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the beef broth, red wine, and add the tomato paste and balsamic vinegar. Toss in the whole garlic heads, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Braise Until Tender
Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow the ribs to simmer gently for about 2–3 hours. The low and slow cooking method is essential for breaking down the tougher cuts of meat. Alternatively, for those using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (180°C), and place the covered pot inside to roast for the same duration. For slow cooker enthusiasts, transfer everything to the device and set it to low for 8–10 hours or high for 3–4 hours, whichever fits your timeline.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
After the long wait, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Take the roasted garlic heads, squeeze out the sweet, caramelized garlic into the sauce, and mix well. Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. At this point, you might want to serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, horseradish brus or even with some crusty bread to enjoy the rich sauce.
Variations
Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some variations to consider:
- Protein: Consider using lamb shanks or a mix of meats like beef and pork for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetables: Include additional vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash for added sweetness and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Cooking Notes
For best results, consider the following tips:
- Ensure your meat is well-seared to enhance flavors.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; longer braising yields a more tender and flavorful result.
- If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix a little flour or cornstarch with water and stir it in about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to serve your French Style Braised Short Ribs:
- Over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic and comforting pairing.
- On a bed of polenta or risotto to soak up the luscious sauce.
- Alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.
Tips
To elevate your dish further, consider the following tips:
- Prepare the short ribs a day ahead; the flavors deepen as they sit overnight.
- Pair your meal with a nice Bordeaux or a dark beer for a complementary beverage choice.
- Finish with fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours (or 8–10 hours in a slow cooker)
- Total Time: 3–4 hours
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: About 30g
- Sodium: Roughly 700mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making the dish a day in advance not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What type of wine should I use?
A dry red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works beautifully, bringing depth and richness to the sauce.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can substitute cuts like beef chuck roast or lamb shanks if preferred.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for longer keeping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, French Style Braised Short Ribs is a must-try recipe that will captivate your taste buds and warm your heart. As you enjoy each bite, you’ll appreciate the melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich flavors that accompany this elegant dish. Whether you follow the classic preparation or add your unique twist, this recipe encompasses the essence of comfort food. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Melt-in-Your-Mouth French Style Braised Short Ribs
- Total Time: 3–4 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
French Style Braised Short Ribs that will melt in your mouth, served with a rich, aromatic sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs, cut into 3–4 inch pieces
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups dry red wine (or additional broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 heads garlic, tops removed
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start the process by searing the short ribs. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces to the pot, allowing them to brown for about 3–4 minutes on each side. This step is crucial as it builds flavor. Once browned, take the ribs out and set them aside. Carefully drain most of the fat, leaving approximately 2 tablespoons in the pot for sautéing the veggies.
- Using the same pot, toss in the sliced onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and aromatic. At this stage, add the chopped garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Return the browned short ribs to the pot along with all the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the beef broth, red wine, and add the tomato paste and balsamic vinegar. Toss in the whole garlic heads, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
- Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow the ribs to simmer gently for about 2–3 hours. The low and slow cooking method is essential for breaking down the tougher cuts of meat. Alternatively, for those using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (180°C), and place the covered pot inside to roast for the same duration. For slow cooker enthusiasts, transfer everything to the device and set it to low for 8–10 hours or high for 3–4 hours, whichever fits your timeline.
- After the long wait, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Take the roasted garlic heads, squeeze out the sweet, caramelized garlic into the sauce, and mix well. Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. At this point, you might want to serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, horseradish brus or even with some crusty bread to enjoy the rich sauce.
Notes
For best results, consider the following tips: Ensure your meat is well-seared to enhance flavors. Don’t rush the cooking process; longer braising yields a more tender and flavorful result. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix a little flour or cornstarch with water and stir it in about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 700 mg
- Protein: About 30 g