Introduction
Red Wine–Braised Short Ribs offers a luxurious and savory dish that is perfect for special occasions. Its rich flavors are achieved by slow cooking beef short ribs in red wine, creating tender meat with depth of taste. This recipe provides an opportunity to indulge in the comforting essence of braised meats without demanding extensive culinary skills or equipment, making it accessible and enjoyable for home chefs of all levels.
Tips for this Recipe
– Begin by preparing your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
– When browning the short ribs in oil, avoid overcrowding the pan and allow each piece ample space to develop color evenly.
– The key to this recipe’s success is patience; allowing the beef to braise slowly will enhance its flavor and texture.
– Consider using a slow cooker if you prefer convenience over traditional stovetop methods, though manual stirring may become necessary in some models.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The allure of Red Wine–Braised Short Ribs lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in the story it tells through every simmer and sip. Each bite is a testament to time-honored culinary traditions, bringing together ingredients that transform individually into something extraordinary when combined thoughtfully over low heat. This recipe celebrates simplicity, with minimal equipment requirements yet maximized flavors, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
5 pound bone-in beef short ribs, cut crosswise into 2″ pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 medium onions, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 750-milliliter bottle dry red wine (preferably Cabernet Sauvignon)
10 sprigs flat-leaf parsley
8 sprigs thyme
4 sprigs oregano
2 sprigs rosemary
2 fresh or dried bay leaves
1 head of garlic, halved crosswise
4 cups low-salt beef stock
Advised Equipment
1. Braising Pan – Cast Iron Dutch Oven (5-Quart)
2. 5-Quart Red Wine Slow Cooker (6 Qt) with Programmable Settings
3. Stainless Steel Dutch Oven with Lid (5-quart)
4. Heavy Duty Skillet Set of Two, Cast Iron – Wok: Stainless Steel Round Frying Pan (18 inch), Heavy Duty Wide Sided Wok Set
5. Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid, 5-quart White Porcelain Finish
6. Amazon Basics 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cooking Utensil Set with Wood Handle and Lids
7. Jadeite Bakeware, 5-Quart Rectangle Cookie Pan, Nonstick and Dishwinaside Wok (Frying Pan), Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven (Wide-Based)
History of the Recipe
Braised dishes have been a staple in culinary history, evolving from ancient methods to modern techniques. Red Wine–Braised Short Ribs can be traced back through countless generations, with variations existing across cultures and regions. The method of slow-cooking meat in liquid was developed as an ingenious way to tenderize tougher cuts like short ribs and infuse them with the rich flavors of accompanying ingredients such as wine, herbs, and vegetables. This specific recipe could have been passed down through families or local communities, adapting over time but maintaining its core principles – a testament to the dish’s enduring appeal.
Fun Facts About this Recipe
1. The use of red wine in cooking is an ancient tradition with roots in Roman times when it was used as both a marinade and cooking liquid for meats, infusing them with complex flavors.
2. Short ribs themselves have a long history; they were once considered leftovers or less desirable cuts of meat that could be transformed into something more palatable through slow braising.
3. The combination of red wine and herbs in cooking is common across many global cuisines, but the specific pairing of ingredients like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves reflects a French influence on this particular recipe’s profile.
4. Braising has gained renewed popularity as it fits into modern culinary movements that prioritize flavor development through slow cooking techniques while maintaining nutritional integrity.
5. The versatility of the braised short rib recipe allows for variations in wine type, vegetable choices, and even alternative proteins, reflecting its adaptability across different palates and preferences.