Family-Styled Short Ribs
Family-Styled Short Ribs offer tender, flavorful beef cooked slowly in a savory broth with onions, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Perfect for hearty dinners, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes and appeals to those who enjoy rich, comforting flavors with a hint of tang.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the short ribs on all sides in salad oil.
- Pour off drippings and season the ribs with salt and pepper.
- Add water, bouillon cubes or powder, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and the onion slices to the skillet.
- Cover tightly and cook slowly for 2 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
- Pour out the cooking liquid to measure 1 1/2 cups, adding water if needed.
- Thicken the liquid to make gravy.
- Serve the short ribs with the gravy and mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, sear the short ribs until they develop a rich brown crust. If you don't have bouillon cubes, you can use 2 teaspoons of powdered bouillon for a quick substitute. Consider using red wine in place of some of the water for added depth. This recipe can also be modified using different cuts of beef if short ribs are not available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad pairs wonderfully with this rich dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a comforting casserole, like the Broccoli-Beef Pie, for a satisfying family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the short ribs cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the ribs in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or gravy to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family-Styled Short Ribs contains roughly 691 calories, with 69g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (138% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2228mg per serving (97% 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 slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the ribs, transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I do if the gravy is too thin?
If your gravy turns out too thin, you can thicken it by creating a slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then gradually stir it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired thickness.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cooking liquid. You can also serve the finished dish with a side of pickled jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
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).