Slow Cooker Short Rib Recipe: Fall-Off-the-Bone Tenderness Made Easy
Are you dreaming of melt-in-your-mouth short ribs that practically fall off the bone? Stop dreaming and start cooking! This slow cooker short rib recipe is your ticket to effortless, restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. No fancy techniques, just simple ingredients and the magic of low and slow cooking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably tender and flavorful dish.
Why This Slow Cooker Short Rib Recipe is the Best
This recipe isn't just about deliciousness; it's about convenience. Slow cookers are your best friend when it comes to busy weeknights or entertaining. Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and forget it! Hours later, you'll be rewarded with incredibly tender short ribs, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a sophisticated dinner party.
Key Features:
- Effortless Preparation: Minimal prep work means more time for you!
- Maximum Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Tender, Fall-Off-the-Bone Short Ribs: Guaranteed to impress!
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is, over mashed potatoes, or with your favorite sides.
- Perfect for Weeknights or Special Occasions: Adaptable to any occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the Short Ribs (Optional but Recommended): For extra depth of flavor, sear the short ribs in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a nice crust.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared short ribs and sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the short ribs are incredibly tender and easily fall apart with a fork.
- Shred the Short Ribs (Optional): Once cooked, you can shred the short ribs with two forks for easier serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the short ribs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta.
Tips and Variations:
- For richer flavor: Add a bay leaf during cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add potatoes and other root vegetables directly to the slow cooker during the last few hours of cooking.
- Make it ahead: These short ribs are even better the next day!
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