Tender, Fall-Off-the-Bone Beef Short Ribs: An Oven-Baked Masterpiece
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with a truly unforgettable meal? Look no further than this oven-baked beef short ribs recipe. This recipe focuses on achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that makes short ribs so coveted, all while keeping the process surprisingly straightforward. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs: Choose high-quality ribs for the best results.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes to a rich and complex flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A staple for adding aromatic depth.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the richness.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): A splash of red wine deepens the flavor profile. If omitting, add extra beef broth.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds a hint of umami and acidity.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and herbaceous notes complement the beef beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Another fantastic herb that works wonders with short ribs.
- 1 tsp salt: Season generously.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is best.
Getting Started: Preparing Your Short Ribs for Oven Baking
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to tender short ribs.
- Season generously: Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season liberally with salt and pepper. This ensures even browning and seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Sear the short ribs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until nicely browned. This step develops a rich crust and enhances the overall flavor. Remove the short ribs from the skillet and set aside.
Building the Flavor Base: The Braising Liquid
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Develop the flavor: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step helps deepen the flavors of the braising liquid.
- Deglaze the pan: Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds a layer of concentrated flavor to the sauce.
- Add the herbs: Stir in the thyme and rosemary.
Braising to Perfection: The Slow and Steady Approach
- Return the short ribs: Place the seared short ribs back into the skillet. Ensure they are mostly submerged in the braising liquid. If needed, add a little more beef broth.
- Cover and bake: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the short ribs are incredibly tender and easily fall off the bone. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your short ribs.
- Check for doneness: After 3 hours, gently pierce a short rib with a fork. If it easily shreds, they're ready! If not, continue baking in 30-minute increments until tender.
Serving Your Masterpiece
Once the short ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. You can serve them as is, or shred the meat and serve it over mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice. The braising liquid can be strained and used as a delicious gravy or sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in short ribs provide richer flavor and better texture.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the short ribs in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Low and slow is key: Patience is key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking.
Enjoy your incredibly flavorful and tender oven-baked beef short ribs! This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. Remember to share your culinary creations using #ovenbakedshortribs.
