Beef Short Ribs Recipe: Slow Cooker Perfection
Are you looking for a melt-in-your-mouth, fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs recipe? Look no further! This slow cooker recipe delivers incredible flavor and texture with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish made easily at home.
Why This Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs Recipe is the Best
This recipe isn't just about deliciousness; it's about convenience and ease. Using a slow cooker allows the beef short ribs to become incredibly tender, breaking down the connective tissues for an unbelievably satisfying experience. The slow cooking process also intensifies the flavors of the herbs and spices, creating a rich and complex gravy.
- Tender and juicy: The slow cooker method ensures perfectly tender short ribs.
- Easy to make: Minimal prep work is required; simply add ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Flavorful and rich: The slow-cooked gravy is intensely flavorful and perfect for dipping.
- Perfect for weeknights or special occasions: This recipe is adaptable to any occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3 lbs beef short ribs: Choose well-marbled short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes to the savory base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates a flavorful base for the cooking liquid.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional): Adds depth of flavor and richness. (Consider substituting with additional beef broth for a non-alcoholic version)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds richness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a piney, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and visual appeal.
Instructions:
- Sear the short ribs (optional but recommended): Before adding the short ribs to the slow cooker, sear them in a hot skillet with a little oil for a few minutes per side. This step adds a delicious crust and enhances the overall flavor.
- Combine ingredients: Add the seared short ribs, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker.
- Slow cook: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can remove the short ribs from the slow cooker and simmer the cooking liquid for 15-20 minutes, allowing it to reduce. You can also whisk in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to thicken the gravy further.
- Serve: Serve the tender short ribs with the delicious gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh rosemary during cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the short ribs ahead of time and reheat them before serving.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: While bone-in short ribs are traditionally preferred for their richer flavor, boneless short ribs offer a more convenient cooking experience.
Keywords: beef short ribs, slow cooker, recipe, tender, juicy, flavorful, easy, weeknight dinner, special occasion, fall-off-the-bone, gravy, beef broth, red wine, herbs, spices
This comprehensive recipe, optimized for SEO, provides a delicious and accessible culinary experience for readers. Remember to use relevant keywords naturally within the text and use engaging headings and subheadings to break up the content. Good luck and happy cooking!
