Slow Cooked Braised Short Ribs—A Dish Made with Love
If comfort had a flavor, it would be the deep, rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste of Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs. This dish combines the rustic charm of slow cooking with the elegance of gourmet dining. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a hearty homemade meal, this recipe will deliver both flavor and warmth straight to your soul.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make easy Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs that taste like they came from a high-end restaurant — all in the comfort of your kitchen. Let’s dive into this best Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs recipe, from ingredients to serving perfection.
🥩 What Makes These Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs So Special?
There’s something magical about braised short ribs. When slowly cooked in a rich sauce of red wine, beef broth, and herbs, the meat becomes incredibly tender — so soft it practically falls off the bone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Deep Flavor: The slow braising method infuses every fiber of the beef with rich, savory notes.
- Set-and-Forget Cooking: Once prepped, the slow cooker or Dutch oven does all the hard work.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday dinners to cozy weekends, this dish shines anywhere.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Simple ingredients, professional results.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 4–5 lbs (about 2 kg) beef short ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups red wine (optional but highly recommended)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Short Ribs
Pat your short ribs dry with paper towels — this ensures a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Meat for Rich Flavor
Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ribs and sear on each side until browned — about 3–4 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step; browning creates flavor depth that defines this dish.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the ribs and set aside. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant — about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste to caramelize and deepen the flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly.
Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs
Stir in beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the ribs to the pot, submerging them halfway in the liquid.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
- In the Oven: Cover and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- In a Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
The ribs are done when the meat is fork-tender and falling off the bone.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Remove the ribs and strain the sauce. Simmer the liquid on the stove for 10–15 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze. Pour the sauce over the ribs before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
These homemade Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery polenta, or even roasted vegetables. The sauce doubles as a luxurious gravy that ties the whole meal together.
Perfect Pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes: Absorb every drop of that savory sauce.
- Creamy Polenta: A silky base that balances the richness.
- Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec enhances the beefy notes.
💡 Tips for the Best Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs
- Don’t skip the sear. Browning locks in flavor and color.
- Use good-quality wine. If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it.
- Let it rest. After cooking, rest ribs for 10 minutes before serving.
- Make ahead. Flavors deepen overnight — reheat gently before serving.
- Remove excess fat. Skim off any surface fat from the sauce for a clean finish.
🕒 Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or in the oven with a splash of broth.
❤️ Why This Is the Best Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs Recipe
Because it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Every bite delivers tender beef, silky sauce, and deep, comforting flavor. The slow-cooking method allows time for transformation — tough meat turns into buttery tenderness, and simple ingredients evolve into a masterpiece.
If you’re searching for quick dinner ideas that impress or crave comfort food recipes for a cozy night, this one’s unbeatable.
🥕 Variations and Customizations
1. Asian-Inspired Short Ribs:
Replace red wine with soy sauce and add ginger, sesame oil, and star anise for a rich umami twist.
2. Beer-Braised Version:
Use dark beer instead of wine for a malty, caramelized flavor.
3. Vegetable Add-Ins:
Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms to enhance the earthy depth.
4. Spicy Kick:
Include a teaspoon of chili flakes or smoked paprika for gentle heat.
🌿 Healthier Version
For a lighter version, trim visible fat from ribs and use low-sodium broth. Serve with steamed vegetables instead of potatoes. You’ll still enjoy the full-bodied taste without the extra calories.
🏆 Conclusion
There’s something profoundly satisfying about slow-cooked meals — and Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs epitomize that joy. With minimal effort, you’ll achieve a dish that’s hearty, aromatic, and utterly unforgettable.
Each forkful melts in your mouth, the sauce wraps around your taste buds, and the entire experience feels like a warm embrace. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this best homemade Slow-Cooked Braised Short Ribs recipe will easily earn a place in your comfort food collection.
So go ahead — pour a glass of wine, light a candle, and let the aroma of slow-cooked perfection fill your kitchen. ❤️
