I absolutely love making apple cider braised short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes! This dish is a total showstopper, perfect for cozy family dinners. You start by searing the short ribs until they’re nice and browned. Then, you mix in some chopped onions and garlic, add apple cider, beef broth, and let everything braise in the oven for three hours. Your house will smell heavenly! The result? Tender, flavorful meat that just falls off the bone, paired with buttery mashed potatoes. Trust me, this meal will warm your heart, and there’s so much more I can share!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When you plunge into this Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs recipe, you’ll immediately notice the incredible depth of flavor that comes from the combination of savory herbs and sweet apple cider.
It’s pure comfort food, perfect for those cozy fall days.
Here’s what you’ll love:
- Rich, hearty fall flavors
- A fragrant, inviting aroma
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness
Trust me, you’ll savor every bite!
Recipe
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender beef short ribs with the sweetness of apple cider, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened.
- Pour in the apple cider and beef broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and return the short ribs to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 3 hours or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove from the oven, discard the thyme and bay leaf, and let the ribs rest before serving.
Notes:
- For a thicker sauce, remove the ribs once cooked and reduce the braising liquid on the stovetop until desired consistency.
- This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving (varies based on portion size and specific ingredients)
- Cuisine: American
Enjoy the comforting blend of flavors in this hearty dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite!
Equipment
For preparing Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs, having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Here are some essential cooking tools that’ll enhance your braising techniques:
- A heavy Dutch oven for even heat distribution
- A sharp chef’s knife for precision cutting
- A sturdy wooden spoon for mixing and stirring
With these tools, you’ll feel empowered to create delicious meals.
Enjoy cooking!
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I think about what to serve with my apple cider braised short ribs, I get excited about all the delicious options!
Seasonal veggies, like roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts, really bring a pop of color and flavor to the table.
And don’t forget a good wine pairing; a nice glass of hearty red wine makes everything even better!
Seasonal Vegetable Pairings
What vegetables can elevate the hearty flavors of apple cider braised short ribs?
I love pairing my dish with seasonal harvest vegetables, like roasted carrots and brussels sprouts.
Simply toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast until caramelized.
These cooking techniques bring out their natural sweetness, matching beautifully with the richness of the short ribs.
It’s a delicious combo you won’t want to miss!
Best Wine Options
Choosing the right wine can truly enhance the experience of enjoying apple cider braised short ribs.
I love exploring wine pairing suggestions that complement the dish. A rich, fruity red like a Merlot really works wonders.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a local regional varietal, as they often surprise you with fantastic flavors.
Let’s toast to delicious food and great wine!
Flavorful Side Dishes
There’s nothing quite like pairing apple cider braised short ribs with flavorful side dishes that elevate the entire meal.
I love sides suggestions like creamy mashed potatoes, tangy roasted Brussels sprouts, or sweet honey-glazed carrots.
These options bring amazing flavor profiles that complement the rich ribs perfectly. Plus, they’ll make your dinner look beautiful and inviting, creating a feast for the senses!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Slow Cooker for This Recipe?
Absolutely, I’ve used a slow cooker for similar recipes! For great results, I recommend adjusting cooking times. Slow cooker tips include searing meat beforehand and adding extra liquid. Recipe adaptations can enhance flavors beautifully. Enjoy your freedom in cooking!
What Type of Apples Are Best for the Cider?
When choosing apples for cider, I love the crisp tang of Granny Smith or the sweet charm of Fuji. These cider varieties dance beautifully together, enhancing braising techniques like a waltz, creating a freedom of flavor that captivates.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, I swap out regular flour for gluten-free thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot. Also, I use alternative marinades that don’t contain soy sauce, ensuring everyone can enjoy delicious flavors without worry.
How Long Does Leftover Short Ribs Last in the Fridge?
Leftover short ribs keep in the fridge for about three to four days. I always prioritize leftovers safety; store them properly to enjoy the flavors later without worry. It’s a delicious treat for later!
Can I Substitute the Apple Cider With Another Liquid?
I’ve found that you can absolutely substitute apple cider with other cooking alternatives. Experimenting with flavors like chicken broth or red wine can yield intriguing flavor profiles, granting you the freedom to create your unique dish.
