If you’re looking for a comforting dish that requires minimal effort, this slow cooker short ribs recipe is for you. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender while absorbing the delicious sauce. Serve this dish with your favorite sides for a meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
– 4 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional value is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, brown the short ribs on all sides over medium heat.
3. Transfer the browned ribs to the slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
5. Add carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine.
7. Pour the mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker.
8. Add beef broth to the slow cooker.
9. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
10. Once cooked, remove the ribs and let rest briefly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute beef short ribs with pork ribs or chicken thighs for a different flavor profile. Additionally, use vegetable broth for a lighter sauce or to make it suitable for dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds flavor.
- Avoid overcooking; short ribs can become dry if left too long.
- Ensure enough liquid in the slow cooker to prevent burning.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Let the meat rest before slicing for better texture.
- Consider adding mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
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. Make sure they are properly thawed before browning for best results.
What type of wine should I use?
A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the flavor balance of the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free broth and ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well.
How do I know when the short ribs are done?
The short ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. Use a fork to check for tenderness.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure that your slow cooker can accommodate the extra ingredients without overflowing.
Conclusion
This slow cooker short ribs recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. The tender, flavorful meat is sure to please everyone at your table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Slow Cooker Short Ribs
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the short ribs on all sides over medium heat.
- Transfer the browned ribs to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
- Add carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine.
- Pour the mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker.
- Add beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the ribs and let rest briefly before serving.
