Braised Short Ribs
Tender braised short ribs melt in your mouth, infused with rich beefy flavors and caramelized onions. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, this slow-cooked dish offers deep, savory notes that appeal to meat lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll the short ribs in seasoned flour (about 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper).
- Brown the short ribs well in a large skillet.
- Place sliced onions in the crock-pot.
- Add the browned ribs on top of the onions.
- Pour in the beef broth, water, or barbecue sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the short ribs overnight with your choice of spices or herbs. For a thicker sauce, after cooking, remove the ribs and reduce the cooking liquid on the stove. If you don't have beef broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even a rich red wine for depth. For an easy side, serve with mashed potatoes or pair with the Hot Pecan Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised short ribs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider offering a side of the Glazed Meat Loaf for a comforting feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, ensuring not to dry out the meat. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised Short Ribs contains roughly 803 calories, with 88g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (176% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2123mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while short ribs are ideal for their rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as these cuts may vary in thickness.
What can I serve with braised short ribs?
Braised short ribs are versatile; they pair well with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a hearty grain like farro. Roasted root vegetables and a crisp salad also complement the dish nicely.
How do I know when the short ribs are done cooking?
The short ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. This typically takes 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high in a slow cooker.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).