If you’re looking for comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, this slow cooker short ribs recipe is your answer. Imagine succulent, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs bathed in a rich, savory sauce. It’s the perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 4 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 35g of protein, 30g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional information is provided for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs on all sides until browned.
3. Transfer the ribs to the slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the onions until translucent.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
7. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring to combine.
8. Add thyme and pour the mixture over the ribs in the slow cooker.
9. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
10. Once cooked, remove the ribs and skim excess fat from the sauce before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute red wine with additional beef broth for a non-alcoholic version. Also, feel free to use different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
These slow cooker short ribs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or a side of roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad can also complement the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the searing step; it adds flavor.
– Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
– Use enough liquid to keep the ribs moist.
– Be patient; cooking too quickly can toughen the meat.
– Taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.
Helpful Tips
– Choose well-marbled ribs for the best flavor.
– Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
– Skim off fat for a lighter sauce.
– Add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen short ribs?
Yes, you can use frozen short ribs. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low, ensuring they are cooked thoroughly.
What can I serve with short ribs?
Short ribs are great with mashed potatoes, rice, or even on a bun for a delicious sandwich. Pair with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs the day before and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them gently before serving.
What type of wine is best for cooking?
A dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, works best for this recipe. It enhances the flavor of the sauce beautifully.
Conclusion
This slow cooker short ribs recipe is a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. With minimal effort, you can achieve a dish that’s rich in flavor and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Slow Cooker Short Ribs
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine optional
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the ribs to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring to combine.
- Add thyme and pour the mixture over the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the ribs and skim excess fat from the sauce before serving.
