Oh boy, do I have a delicious recipe to share with you all today! When the weather turns chilly and I crave something hearty and comforting, I often turn to my favorite Balsamic Braised Beef Short Ribs. Just thinking about them makes my mouth water! There’s something about the rich, deep flavor of balsamic vinegar mingling with tender beef that warms the soul.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was determined to treat myself and my family to something special. As the short ribs braised in the oven, the whole house filled with the most incredible aroma, making it hard to wait for dinner. Spilling over with flavors, these short ribs have a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar and earthy herbs, making it a unique take on a classic dish. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new go-to comfort food too!
What’s in Balsamic Braised Beef Short Ribs?
– **Beef Short Ribs:** These are cut from the chuck and are incredibly flavorful. When they braise slowly, they become melt-in-your-mouth tender, which is what we’re after!
– **Salt and Pepper:** Essential for seasoning! Don’t be shy—these short ribs can take a good sprinkle.
– **Olive Oil:** We’ll use this for searing the ribs, giving them a beautiful crust and enhancing the flavor.
– **Onion:** A large diced onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
– **Garlic:** Who doesn’t love garlic? The minced cloves will take the flavor up a notch!
– **Beef Broth:** This is crucial for the braising liquid, adding savory depth to our sauce.
– **Balsamic Vinegar:** Ah, the star of the show! It provides that tangy sweetness that complements the rich meat perfectly.
– **Brown Sugar:** Just a tablespoon balances the acidity of the balsamic. You’ll be surprised at how it rounds off the flavor.
– **Fresh Rosemary and Thyme:** These herbs are wonderful additions; they enhance the overall aroma and taste of the dish. Dried herbs can work in a pinch too!
– **Worcestershire Sauce:** A splash of this sauce adds umami and complexity to the braising liquid.
– **Fresh Parsley:** For garnish, it brightens up the dish and adds a bit of color.
– **Mashed Potatoes or Creamy Polenta:** These are essential accompaniments for soaking up all that luscious sauce!
Is Balsamic Braised Beef Short Ribs Good for You?
Now, let’s dive into the health benefits (and considerations!) of this delightful dish. First off, **beef short ribs** are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are important for energy and immune function. However, they can be higher in fat, so moderation is key.
The inclusion of **onions** and **garlic** not only boosts the flavor but also brings in some antioxidants that can promote heart health. And let’s not forget the **balsamic vinegar**! It’s known to contain antioxidants and can help with digestion.
Of course, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to choose low-sodium broth and keep an eye on how much salt you add. Overall, this dish is meant as a comforting indulgence, so enjoy it as part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, for serving
This recipe serves about 4-6 hungry folks, so be prepared to satisfy those taste buds!
How to Make Balsamic Braised Beef Short Ribs?
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs in batches and sear them on all sides until they’re beautifully browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove the ribs and set them aside.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened, about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar, and stir in the brown sugar, rosemary, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this delightful mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid.
7. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and falling off the bone.
8. Once they’re cooked, carefully remove the pot from the oven. If you’d like, strain the sauce and simmer it on the stovetop to thicken it slightly.
9. Serve the short ribs hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up all that mouthwatering sauce. Enjoy!
Fun Serving Suggestions for Your Short Ribs
Okay, friends, let’s talk pairings! While mashed potatoes are a classic, consider creamy polenta—it adds a lovely texture and flavor contrast. You could even pour this over some buttery noodles for a twist! If you’re feeling fancy, a side of roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten the plate and balance the meal.
I’m telling you, once you make these Balsamic Braised Beef Short Ribs, you’ll want to keep the recipe close at hand for all those occasions when a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish is in order. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking! I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how it turns out!
