Beef Short Ribs Recipe: Easy and Delicious Recipe for Beginners
Why You’ll Love This Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Few dishes embody the rich, hearty satisfaction of home-cooked comfort food quite like boneless beef short ribs. When prepared with care, these succulent cuts of beef become tender, bursting with deep flavors that feel like a warm embrace on a cool evening.
Whether you’re new to cooking short ribs or you’re searching for a foolproof recipe to add to your repertoire, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through every step of creating mouthwatering boneless beef short ribs that fall apart with every forkful.
By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to serve up a dish so rich in flavor and texture that it will become a staple at your dinner table.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Boneless Beef Short Ribs (Easy-to-Read Table)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Boneless beef short ribs | 2.5 lbs |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onion (diced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Red wine (optional) | 1 cup |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh rosemary (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Boneless Beef Short Ribs
1. Prepping the Short Ribs
Start by giving the short ribs a quick trim. Any excessive fat left on the ribs can lead to a greasy texture. A thin layer of fat is great for flavor, but you don’t want too much. After trimming, use paper towels to pat the ribs dry. This ensures a perfect sear.
Generously season the ribs on all sides with salt and black pepper. Don’t skip this step – the seasoning is what helps build layers of flavor from the very start.
2. Searing to Lock in Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the ribs in the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, turning until all sides are browned.
Searing is crucial. It caramelizes the outer layer of the meat, adding that irresistible rich flavor to the final dish.
3. Building the Flavor Base
After searing the ribs, remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and sauté until they become soft and golden. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
If you’re using red wine, pour it into the pan to deglaze. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot – this step infuses even more flavor into the dish. Let the wine reduce for 3-4 minutes before moving on.
4. Slow Cooking to Tender Perfection
Now comes the magic. Return the ribs to the pot. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Stir gently to combine. Sprinkle in rosemary and thyme for aromatic depth.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow the ribs to cook slowly for 2.5 to 3 hours. This low-and-slow method breaks down the collagen in the meat, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
5. Thickening the Sauce
After the ribs have cooked, remove them from the pot and set aside to rest. Simmer the remaining sauce uncovered until it reduces and thickens. For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender or standard blender.
Serve the short ribs with the thickened sauce drizzled generously over the top.
Tips for Perfect Boneless Beef Short Ribs
- Choose Marbled Cuts: Marbling equals flavor. Look for short ribs with visible streaks of fat for the best results.
- Don’t Rush the Process: Slow cooking is key. Resist the urge to turn up the heat – patience pays off.
- Let the Ribs Rest: Allow the ribs to sit for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute evenly.
- Pair Wisely: Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement the rich flavor of the ribs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
How Long Does It Take to Cook Boneless Beef Short Ribs ?
Typically, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours of slow cooking for the ribs to become tender. This can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the meat.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker ?
Definitely! After searing the ribs and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat becomes tender and easily falls apart.