Oven-Baked Beef Short Ribs: A Fall-Apart Tender Recipe
Are you ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? Look no further than this oven-baked beef short ribs recipe. These melt-in-your-mouth short ribs are incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe will impress even the most discerning palates.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe focuses on achieving maximum tenderness and deep flavor. We'll achieve this by using a combination of low and slow cooking, aromatic vegetables, and a rich braising liquid. The result? Short ribs that are so tender, they practically fall off the bone.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles:
- Beef Short Ribs: Choose bone-in short ribs for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for ribs with good marbling for extra richness.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery form the base of our flavor profile. These vegetables will caramelize beautifully during the cooking process, adding depth and sweetness to the braising liquid.
- Braising Liquid: A mixture of beef broth, red wine (optional, but highly recommended!), and herbs creates a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the short ribs and keeps them moist.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices are essential for enhancing the natural beef flavor. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Oven-Baked Beef Short Ribs Recipe
This recipe is designed for ease and delicious results. Follow these steps carefully for a guaranteed success.
Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs
Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves). This step is crucial for creating a flavorful crust.
Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs
Heat a large oven-safe skillet (Dutch oven is ideal) over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until nicely browned. This step adds depth of flavor and helps create a beautiful crust.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Add the chopped aromatics (onions, carrots, and celery) to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Step 4: Braise the Short Ribs
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Add your chosen herbs. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the skillet and braise for at least 2.5-3 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the short ribs.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Once the short ribs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Simmer the braising liquid uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Return the short ribs to the skillet to coat them in the delicious sauce. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes, polenta, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the short ribs in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the short ribs to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. 190-200°F (88-93°C) is ideal for tender, fall-apart short ribs.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: These short ribs taste even better the next day! They can be made ahead of time and reheated.
This oven-baked beef short ribs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it out and experience the magic of fall-apart tender, flavorful short ribs! Enjoy!
