Delicious and Easy Braised Short Ribs in a Slow Cooker
Short ribs are a popular cut of meat known for their rich flavor and tender texture. When braised in a slow cooker, they become incredibly succulent and practically fall off the bone. This method of cooking allows for the flavors to meld together, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for braised short ribs in a slow cooker that will leave your taste buds singing.
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of beef short ribs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 cup of red wine
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, working in batches if necessary. This will create a flavorful crust on the meat.
- Transfer the browned short ribs to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Transfer them to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste. Pour this mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker.
- Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Once the short ribs are done, carefully transfer them to a serving platter and cover them to keep warm.
- Skim any excess fat off the top of the cooking liquid in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid to create a slurry. Stir the slurry back into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaves from the sauce.
- Serve the short ribs with the sauce spooned over the top. They pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles.
There you have it – a simple and delectable recipe for braised short ribs in a slow cooker. The long, slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and the flavors to develop into a rich and savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting meal, these braised short ribs are sure to impress.
Want to share your experience with braising short ribs in a slow cooker or learn tips from other home cooks? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!
FAQ:
What are the best short ribs to use for braising in a slow cooker?
For braising short ribs in a slow cooker, it’s best to use bone-in beef short ribs. Look for well-marbled ribs with a good amount of fat, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the long, slow cooking process.
Can I skip searing the short ribs before braising them in the slow cooker?
While it’s not absolutely necessary to sear the short ribs before braising them in the slow cooker, it’s highly recommended. Searing the ribs creates a caramelized crust, which adds depth of flavor to the dish. It also helps to render some of the fat, which can improve the overall texture of the meat.
How long should I braise short ribs in a slow cooker?
The ideal cooking time for braising short ribs in a slow cooker is around 8-10 hours on low heat. This long, slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful.
What liquid should I use for braising short ribs in a slow cooker?
For braising short ribs in a slow cooker, you can use a variety of liquids such as beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both. The liquid should partially cover the ribs, allowing them to braise and become tender as they cook.
Should I add vegetables to the slow cooker when braising short ribs?
Yes, adding vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker when braising short ribs can enhance the flavor of the dish. These vegetables will also cook down and create a delicious sauce to accompany the ribs.
How can I thicken the braising liquid for short ribs in a slow cooker?
To thicken the braising liquid for short ribs in a slow cooker, you can create a slurry by mixing equal parts of cornstarch and cold water, then adding it to the cooking liquid. Alternatively, you can remove the ribs and vegetables from the slow cooker, then simmer the liquid on the stovetop to reduce and thicken it.
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