Beef Bone-In Short Rib Slow Cooker Delight

There's something magical about a dish that's both simple to prepare and rich in flavor, and the Beef Bone-In Short Ribs made in a slow cooker fits this description perfectly. If you're looking to impress your dinner guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal on a cozy night, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Not only does the slow cooking process ensure tenderness, but it also enhances the depth of flavors, making it a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this slow cooker sensation:

• 3-4 lbs of bone-in beef short ribs
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine (optional, but recommended for depth of flavor)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1 tsp dried
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional for thickening)

Preparation

Let’s get this dish started:

1. Season the Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper. This helps in sealing the juices in during the browning process.
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides, which will take about 4-5 minutes per side. This step adds a lot of flavor, so don’t skip it!
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add garlic, cook for another minute.
4. Create the Braising Liquid: If using wine, deglaze the skillet with it, scraping up any browned bits. Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned ribs in the slow cooker. Add the vegetables around and on top of the meat. Pour the skillet’s contents over everything.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are falling off the bone tender.

🔥 Note: For a thicker sauce, at the end of cooking, remove the ribs and vegetables, whisk in some flour mixed with cold water to the juices, and let it simmer until it thickens. Remember to adjust seasonings to taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the rich braising liquid.
• Polenta: An alternative base, which soaks up the delicious juices.
• Green Vegetables: Balance the richness with something light like steamed or sautéed green beans or asparagus.

Wrapping up, this dish not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also brings a gourmet touch to your table with minimal effort. The combination of slow-cooked beef with earthy root vegetables, flavored by a reduction of red wine and beef broth, makes for an unforgettable meal. The tenderness of the ribs, achieved through the slow cooking process, contrasts beautifully with the firm yet soft vegetables, creating a harmony of textures. This recipe not only stands out as a centerpiece for special occasions but is also perfect for those lazy Sunday dinners where comfort food reigns supreme. As we've seen, the preparation is straightforward, yet the result is luxurious, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the most profound flavors.

Can I use boneless short ribs instead?

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Yes, you can use boneless short ribs, but cooking times might need to be adjusted as they cook a bit faster without the bone.

What if I don’t have red wine?

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You can skip the wine, but to compensate, you might want to add more beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for that depth of flavor.

How can I ensure my ribs stay tender?

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The slow cooker does most of the work, but don’t overcook. Cooking times vary by cooker; check for tenderness after the suggested time and continue if needed.