The Ultimate Beef Short Ribs in the Oven: Easy and Savory Feast

Beef Short Ribs in the Oven Recipe

Beef short ribs are a flavorful and hearty cut of meat that is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. When cooked in the oven, the ribs become fall-off-the-bone tender and develop a rich, caramelized crust. This recipe will guide you through the steps of creating a delicious and memorable beef short rib dish in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

3-4 pounds beef short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 300F (150C).
Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or braising pan over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs from the pan and set aside.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the red wine and let it simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Return the short ribs to the pan and nestle them in the sauce. Cover the pan and braise in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Benefits:

Beef short ribs are a good source of protein, iron, and zinc.
They are also a good source of collagen, which is important for healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Braising is a healthy cooking method that helps to preserve the nutrients in the meat.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, marinate the short ribs in the red wine mixture for at least 8 hours before cooking.
If you don’t have a Dutch oven or braising pan, you can cook the short ribs in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
Serve the short ribs with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dish.
The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Beef short ribs in the oven are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With a little bit of preparation, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. So next time you’re looking for a special meal to impress your family and friends, give this recipe a try.

Key Aspects of Beef Short Ribs in the Oven Recipe

When it comes to cooking beef short ribs in the oven, there are several key aspects that contribute to the overall success of the dish. These aspects, each succinctly described, explore various dimensions related to the main topic:

Cut of meat: Beef short ribs are a flavorful and well-marbled cut of meat that is ideal for braising in the oven.
Seasoning: Seasoning the ribs with salt, pepper, and other spices enhances their flavor and creates a delicious crust.
Braising liquid: The braising liquid, typically made with red wine, beef broth, and vegetables, adds moisture and flavor to the ribs.
Cooking time and temperature: Cooking the ribs at a low temperature for an extended period allows the collagen to break down, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
Resting: Allowing the ribs to rest before serving helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.
Serving: Beef short ribs can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

These key aspects are interconnected and play a crucial role in creating a delicious and satisfying beef short rib dish. The choice of cut, proper seasoning, a flavorful braising liquid, adequate cooking time and temperature, and proper resting ensure that the ribs are tender, flavorful, and juicy. Serving the ribs with complementary sides enhances the overall dining experience.

Cut of meat

In the context of a beef short ribs in the oven recipe, the cut of meat plays a crucial role in determining the final outcome of the dish. Beef short ribs are a specific cut of meat that is well-suited for braising due to its unique characteristics:

Flavorful: Beef short ribs have a rich, beefy flavor that is enhanced by the braising process.
Well-marbled: The marbling, or streaks of fat, within the meat helps to keep the ribs moist and juicy during cooking.
Ideal for braising: The combination of flavor and marbling makes beef short ribs an ideal cut of meat for braising, a cooking method that involves slow cooking in a flavorful liquid.

Other cuts of meat may not possess the same combination of flavor, marbling, and suitability for braising, which is why beef short ribs are specifically recommended in this recipe.

Seasoning

Seasoning plays a crucial role in a beef short ribs in the oven recipe as it enhances the flavor of the ribs and creates a delicious crust. When seasoning the ribs, it is important to use a generous amount of salt and pepper. This will help to draw out the natural flavors of the meat and create a flavorful crust. In addition to salt and pepper, other spices can be used to add additional flavor to the ribs. Some popular choices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. These spices can be added to the ribs either before or after they are browned.

The process of seasoning the ribs is simple. First, the ribs should be patted dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning to adhere to the meat. Then, the ribs should be seasoned liberally with salt and pepper. The other spices can be added at this time, if desired. Once the ribs are seasoned, they should be placed in a baking dish and roasted in the oven. The ribs should be roasted until they are cooked through and the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.

The benefits of seasoning the ribs are numerous. First, seasoning helps to enhance the flavor of the meat. Second, seasoning helps to create a delicious crust on the ribs. Third, seasoning helps to keep the ribs moist during the cooking process. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your beef short ribs are flavorful, juicy, and delicious.

Braising liquid

In a beef short ribs in the oven recipe, the braising liquid plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the ribs. The liquid, typically made with red wine, beef broth, and vegetables, provides both moisture and flavor to the ribs as they braise in the oven.

The red wine in the braising liquid adds a rich, robust flavor to the ribs. The beef broth provides a savory base, while the vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, add sweetness and depth of flavor. As the ribs braise in the liquid, they absorb the flavors of the wine, broth, and vegetables, resulting in a complex and delicious dish.

In addition to flavor, the braising liquid also helps to keep the ribs moist and tender. The liquid prevents the ribs from drying out during the long cooking process, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender meat. The liquid also helps to create a flavorful sauce that can be served with the ribs.

The braising liquid is an essential component of a beef short ribs in the oven recipe. It provides both flavor and moisture, resulting in a delicious and tender dish. When making this recipe, be sure to use a high-quality red wine and beef broth, as these ingredients will greatly impact the final flavor of the ribs.

Cooking time and temperature

In the context of a beef short ribs in the oven recipe, cooking time and temperature play a crucial role in achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Collagen is a type of protein found in connective tissue, and it is responsible for the toughness of meat. When meat is cooked at a low temperature for an extended period, the collagen breaks down and the meat becomes more tender.

Time and temperature: The ideal cooking time and temperature for beef short ribs is 2-3 hours at 300F (150C). This allows the collagen to break down slowly and evenly, resulting in tender, flavorful ribs.
Collagen breakdown: As the ribs cook, the collagen breaks down into gelatin, which adds moisture and richness to the meat. This process is what gives braised short ribs their fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
Tenderness: The combination of low temperature and extended cooking time allows the meat to reach its maximum tenderness without becoming dry or tough. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is the hallmark of perfectly cooked short ribs.

Understanding the relationship between cooking time, temperature, and collagen breakdown is essential for achieving perfectly tender beef short ribs in the oven. By following the recommended cooking parameters, you can ensure that your ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with flavor.

Resting

In the context of a beef short ribs in the oven recipe, the resting period is a crucial step that enhances the overall flavor and juiciness of the dish. Resting allows the juices within the meat to redistribute, resulting in a more even and intense flavor throughout. Here are several facets that explore this connection in detail:

Juice redistribution: During cooking, the juices within the ribs are forced towards the center of the meat. Resting allows these juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more consistent and flavorful eating experience.
Flavor enhancement: As the juices redistribute, they carry along the flavors from the braising liquid and seasonings, further enhancing the overall flavor profile of the ribs.
Moisture retention: Resting also allows the meat to reabsorb some of the juices that were released during cooking. This helps to retain moisture, resulting in more tender and juicy ribs.
Tenderness: The resting period allows the meat fibers to relax, which contributes to the overall tenderness of the ribs. Resting for an appropriate amount of time ensures that the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Understanding the importance of resting is essential for achieving perfectly cooked beef short ribs in the oven. By allowing the ribs to rest before serving, you can ensure that they are not only flavorful but also incredibly tender and juicy. This simple yet crucial step will elevate your beef short ribs dish to the next level.

Serving

The serving aspect of a beef short ribs in the oven recipe is crucial for completing the culinary experience. Serving the ribs with appropriate sides enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish by complementing its flavors and providing a balanced meal.

Complementary flavors: Sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad provide contrasting flavors and textures that complement the richness of the beef short ribs. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes, the sweetness of roasted vegetables, or the freshness of a green salad balance the hearty and flavorful ribs.
Balanced meal: Serving beef short ribs with sides creates a more balanced meal that includes essential food groups. Mashed potatoes provide carbohydrates, roasted vegetables offer vitamins and minerals, and a green salad adds a source of fiber. This combination ensures a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Variety and presentation: Offering a variety of sides allows diners to choose their preferred accompaniments and customize their meal. It also adds visual appeal to the overall presentation, making the dish more inviting and appetizing.
Dietary considerations: When selecting sides, dietary considerations can be taken into account. For example, mashed potatoes can be made with alternative milk options for those with dairy allergies, and roasted vegetables can be seasoned to accommodate different taste preferences.

Understanding the importance of serving beef short ribs with appropriate sides elevates the recipe beyond just cooking the ribs. It transforms the meal into a well-rounded culinary experience that satisfies both the palate and the body’s nutritional needs. By carefully considering the complementary flavors, balanced nutrition, variety, presentation, and dietary considerations, you can create a truly memorable beef short ribs in the oven dish.

A beef short ribs in the oven recipe is a culinary method that involves slowly braising beef short ribs in a flavorful liquid in the oven. This technique results in tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are packed with rich, savory flavors.

The popularity of beef short ribs in the oven recipes stems from several factors. Firstly, short ribs are a flavorful and economical cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly. Secondly, braising in the oven allows for precise temperature control and even cooking, ensuring that the ribs are cooked to perfection without drying out. Additionally, the use of aromatic liquids and seasonings infuses the ribs with a symphony of flavors.

To explore the nuances of beef short ribs in the oven recipes, several key aspects will be examined in the following sections: selecting the right cut of meat, preparing the braising liquid, understanding the cooking process, and serving suggestions. By delving into these elements, home cooks and culinary enthusiasts can elevate their understanding and appreciation of this delectable dish.

FAQs on Beef Short Ribs in the Oven Recipe

Beef short ribs in the oven is a delectable dish that often raises questions among home cooks. Here are some frequently asked questions to address common concerns and misconceptions:

Question 1: What is the best cut of beef for short ribs?

For oven-braised short ribs, the ideal cut is “English-style” beef short ribs. These ribs are cut from the chuck primal and have a good amount of meat and fat, making them perfect for slow cooking.

Question 2: How long should I cook beef short ribs in the oven?

Cooking time varies depending on the size and thickness of the ribs. As a general rule, plan for 2 to 3 hours of braising at 300F (150C) for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

Question 3: What type of liquid should I use for braising?

Red wine, beef broth, and a combination of both are popular choices for braising liquids. The liquid should cover at least half of the ribs, and aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery can be added for extra flavor.

Question 4: Can I cook short ribs in the oven without searing them first?

While searing the ribs before braising adds flavor, it is not a necessary step. If you choose to skip searing, simply place the ribs directly into the braising liquid.

Question 5: How do I know when the short ribs are done cooking?

The ribs are done when the meat is fork-tender and pulls away easily from the bone. You can also insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the rib; it should read an internal temperature of 203F (95C) for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

Question 6: What are some serving suggestions for beef short ribs?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and polenta are classic accompaniments for beef short ribs. You can also serve them with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious braising juices.

Summary: Preparing beef short ribs in the oven is a straightforward process that yields tender, flavorful results. Remember to choose the right cut of meat, use a flavorful braising liquid, and cook the ribs until fall-off-the-bone tender. With careful attention to these details, you can create a memorable and satisfying beef short ribs dish.

Transition to the next article section: Explore additional tips and variations for perfecting your beef short ribs in the oven recipe in the following section.

Conclusion

The exploration of beef short ribs in the oven recipe has unveiled the intricacies of this delectable dish. From selecting the right cut of meat to understanding the nuances of the cooking process, each step contributes to the symphony of flavor and tenderness that defines this culinary masterpiece. By mastering these techniques, home cooks and culinary enthusiasts can create fall-off-the-bone ribs that will impress and delight.

As we conclude this culinary journey, let us remember the essence of a well-executed beef short ribs dish: the tender embrace of the meat, the rich tapestry of flavors infused by the braising liquid, and the comforting warmth it brings to the table. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, beef short ribs in the oven is a testament to the transformative power of slow cooking and the enduring love for hearty, flavorful cuisine.

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