Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Braised Beef Short Ribs are the epitome of comfort food. The slow cooking process creates ultra-tender meat that melts in your mouth, and the rich sauce adds an irresistible depth of flavor. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe will leave everyone raving about the deliciousness. The best part? While it may seem fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple steps!

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather all the ingredients you need. Braising short ribs is simple and requires just a handful of high-quality ingredients that work together to create a rich, savory meal.

• Bone-in beef short ribs: 2 lbs

• Ghee or butter: 2 tablespoons

• Onion (large, sliced): 1

• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves

• Tomato paste: 3 tablespoons

• Coconut aminos (or soy sauce for keto): ⅓ cup

• Balsamic vinegar: ⅓ cup

• Beef or bone broth: 2 cups

• Fresh thyme (bundle): 1 bundle

• Bay leaf: 1

• Flour (gluten-free, optional): 3 tablespoons

• Salt and pepper: To taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Here’s how to prepare your Braised Beef Short Ribs:

1. Season and Sear the Beef Short Ribs

   • Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.

   • Sear the short ribs in batches, ensuring all sides are browned (about 12–15 minutes total). Remove them from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

   • Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the same pot, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Deglaze the Pot with Coconut Aminos and Balsamic Vinegar

   • Pour in ⅓ cup of coconut aminos and ⅓ cup of balsamic vinegar, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits from the pot.

4. Add Tomato Paste and Flour to Create the Sauce

   • Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and 3 tablespoons of flour (gluten-free if necessary) until you have a thick paste.

   • Slowly whisk in 2 cups of beef or bone broth, creating a smooth and rich sauce.

5. Braise the Short Ribs in the Oven

   • Return the short ribs to the pot and add the thyme bundle and bay leaf.

   • Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).

   • Braise the short ribs for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 2 hours

• Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce or substitute with cornstarch.

• Keto-Friendly: Swap coconut aminos for soy sauce and omit the flour. Consider using xanthan gum for thickening.

• Boneless Ribs: You can use boneless short ribs instead of bone-in, but reduce the cooking time slightly since they will cook faster.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: After braising, let the short ribs cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Braised short ribs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 20–30 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless beef short ribs instead?

Yes, boneless short ribs will work, but they cook faster than bone-in ribs, so adjust the braising time accordingly.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Braised beef short ribs are great for make-ahead meals. Store the cooked ribs in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Can I freeze braised beef short ribs?

Yes, braised beef short ribs freeze well. Let them cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. Reheat after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.

What can I use instead of coconut aminos?

Soy sauce is a great substitute for coconut aminos, especially if you are not on a keto diet. Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative.

How do I know when the short ribs are fully cooked?

The ribs are done when the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check with a fork to ensure the meat is fully tender.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can braise the short ribs in a slow cooker. After searing the meat, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Balsamic vinegar provides a unique flavor, but you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if necessary.

How do I thicken the sauce without flour?

To make the sauce thicker without flour, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with a bit of water.

Can I make this recipe without broth?

If you don’t have beef or bone broth, you can substitute with water or a vegetable broth, though the flavor may be less rich.

What should I serve with braised beef short ribs?

Braised beef short ribs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta.

Conclusion

Braised Beef Short Ribs are the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. With rich, tender meat and a flavorful sauce, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and enjoy the mouthwatering results!