Saucy Short Ribs
Savory, tender short ribs cooked in a rich onion gravy, perfect for hearty dinners. Flavored with Worcestershire and seasoned to perfection, ideal for family or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the beef short ribs.
- Heat fat in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Roll the ribs in flour to coat evenly.
- Brown the ribs in hot fat, then spoon off excess fat.
- Season the ribs with salt and pepper.
- Add hot water to the Dutch oven, cover, and simmer on the stove or in a 325°F oven until the meat is tender, about 2 hours.
- Add extra water if needed during cooking.
- Remove the meat and keep warm on a platter.
- Make onion gravy by cooking sliced onions in the drippings.
- Serve the short ribs with the onion gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the cooking liquid. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought beef broth instead of water. To thicken the sauce more quickly, you can whisk in an additional tablespoon of flour toward the end. This dish also pairs well with mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the delicious gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the saucy short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or sautéed greens can add a nice contrast. For a complete feast, consider pairing this dish with a robust red wine and finishing with a slice of cornbread pie casserole. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover short ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can gently reheat them on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Short Ribs contains roughly 410 calories, with 44g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value) and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1480mg per serving (64% 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, you can substitute beef chuck or brisket if short ribs are not available. However, cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you cook. These alternatives will still give you a delicious, hearty dish.
How can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, sear the ribs first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the onions and hot water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the meat is tender. Thicken the sauce after cooking if desired.
What can I do if the sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the sauce while it simmers. Alternatively, you can remove the ribs, boil the sauce to reduce it, or whisk in additional flour for a thicker consistency.
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).