If you’re on the lookout for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of rich, hearty flavors, look no further than this Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs Recipe. These succulent short ribs, bathed in the deep, malty richness of Guinness beer, promise a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an occasion to impress guests, this recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and taste, making it a winning choice for any occasion.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, including juicy beef ribs, aromatic garlic and onions, and of course, a generous splash of Guinness, you can create a meal that’s nothing short of spectacular. The magic happens when the slow braising melds these flavors into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s sure to be the star of any meal. Plus, the cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible even to those new to the kitchen. If hearty, robust flavors that warm the soul are what you’re after, this dish is your answer.
Not only is the Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs Recipe a delight to the taste buds, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a leisurely cooking session. As the ingredients are set to braise, your home will be infused with an enticing aroma, promising a meal as comforting as it is delicious. With all these features, this recipe isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories and enjoying every moment spent in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs Recipe
- Deep flavor: The Guinness adds a rich, malty depth of flavor that complements the savory beef.
- Tender meat: Slow-braised to perfection, ensuring every bite is succulent and delicious.
- Impressive but simple: A dish that looks gourmet but is simple enough for any home cook to master.
- Aromatic aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible scents while the dish cooks.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the culinary journey of creating the Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs, it’s important to set up your kitchen for smooth and successful cooking. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, with all ingredients readily accessible. This preparation allows you to focus on the cooking process without having to pause repeatedly to search for items.
For this recipe, a sturdy Dutch oven is a key tool. Its ability to retain heat and cook evenly is perfect for slow-braising the ribs to achieve that desired tenderness. Additionally, using a quality knife will make mincing garlic and dicing onions a breeze. A measuring cup is handy to accurately measure the Guinness and beef stock. Remember to have a wooden spoon ready to stir the pot, ensuring all the flavors are well integrated without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef short ribs, bone-in
- 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef stock, low sodium
- 1 cup Guinness beer
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
Step 1: Browning the Meat
To begin, season the short ribs with salt and pepper, ensuring every rib is lightly covered. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the short ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each rib until all sides are browned, usually around 3-4 minutes per side. Browning the ribs seals in flavor and creates a rich, savory base for the braise. Once browned, transfer the ribs to a plate and set them aside.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Using the same Dutch oven, add the diced onions. Sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent. Add minced garlic, stirring for about a minute, until its aroma fills the air. Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, followed by the tomato paste. Stir continuously to ensure the flour doesn’t stick, letting it cook briefly for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 3: Deglazing and Braising
Gradually pour in the Guinness beer, using a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the dish. Add the beef stock, stirring well to blend everything together. Return the browned ribs to the pot. Sprinkle with fresh thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Slow Cooking Perfection
Let the ribs braise in the oven for approximately 2.5 hours. This slow cooking allows the meat to absorb all the flavors while becoming tender and juicy. Once done, the meat should be falling off the bone, making it easy to serve.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the short ribs with lamb shanks for a different yet equally delightful taste.
- Vegetables: Add chunks of carrots or parsnips in with the onions for added depth and sweetness.
- Spices: Incorporate a bay leaf or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure not to overcrowd the Dutch oven when browning the ribs, as this can cause them to steam rather than sear.
- The flavor of the dish deepens with time, so consider making it a day ahead and reheating gently before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these ribs with creamy mashed potatoes to complement their rich flavors.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce.
Tips
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Rest the ribs for a few minutes before serving to retain their juiciness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
FAQs
Can I use a different type of beer?
Guinness is recommended for its rich, malty flavor, but you can substitute with another stout for a similar taste profile.
Can this dish be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer everything into a slow cooker after step 3, cooking on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
What can I use if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
A heavy-duty, oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid can be used as an alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs Recipe effortlessly combines flavor and simplicity to deliver a dish that truly captivates the senses. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, the rich, satisfying taste ensures it’s always a hit. Feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own, and share your experiences with friends or in the comments. Cooking is about exploration, so enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and let this recipe become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
Print
Easy Guinness Braised Short Ribs
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These succulent short ribs, bathed in the deep, malty richness of Guinness beer, promise a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef short ribs, bone-in
- 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef stock, low sodium
- 1 cup Guinness beer
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- To begin, season the short ribs with salt and pepper, ensuring every rib is lightly covered. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the short ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each rib until all sides are browned, usually around 3-4 minutes per side. Browning the ribs seals in flavor and creates a rich, savory base for the braise. Once browned, transfer the ribs to a plate and set them aside.
- Using the same Dutch oven, add the diced onions. Sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent. Add minced garlic, stirring for about a minute, until its aroma fills the air. Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, followed by the tomato paste. Stir continuously to ensure the flour doesn’t stick, letting it cook briefly for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the Guinness beer, using a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the dish. Add the beef stock, stirring well to blend everything together. Return the browned ribs to the pot. Sprinkle with fresh thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C).
- Let the ribs braise in the oven for approximately 2.5 hours. This slow cooking allows the meat to absorb all the flavors while becoming tender and juicy. Once done, the meat should be falling off the bone, making it easy to serve.
Notes
Consider making it a day ahead and reheating gently for even deeper flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: Not specified
- Protein: Not specified