Oh, my dear foodie friends! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort dishes: French Style Braised Short Ribs. Picture this: tender, juicy beef that practically melts in your mouth, surrounded by a luxurious, rich sauce with a hint of red wine and fresh herbs. I first came across this recipe on a rainy Saturday a few years ago when I was cozying up with a glass of wine and a desire to indulge in something special. After trying it, I knew it had to be part of my regular rotation!
This dish not only warms my soul but also transports me to a quaint Parisian bistro. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but recall that evening spent with friends, gathered around the table, buttery mashed potatoes in one hand and a great conversation in the other. If there’s something magical about cooking with love, then this recipe is nothing short of an enchanting experience!
What’s in French Style Braised Short Ribs?
Let’s break down these scrumptious ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors:
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the show! I typically look for well-marbled ribs, which are a guarantee for flavor and tenderness as they break down during the long, slow braising process.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the meat’s natural flavors. I usually go for a generous helping—don’t be shy!
Olive Oil: A great base for searing! I love using extra virgin olive oil for its deep flavor.
Onion, Carrots, and Celery: These aromatics create the flavor foundation for the dish. Dicing them up feels like I’m in my own little cooking show!
Garlic: Ah, garlic—the magical ingredient that makes everything better! I use fresh cloves for the best punch of flavor.
Red Wine: I prefer a dry French wine here; it really adds that sophisticated touch. Just make sure it’s a wine you enjoy sipping on—it makes a difference!
Beef Broth: Use a hearty broth for that deep, robust flavor. Homemade is fantastic, but don’t worry—store-bought works just as well!
Tomato Paste: This adds a subtle sweetness and adds richness to the sauce.
Fresh Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs bring out those delightful, earthy flavors that pair so beautifully with beef.
Fresh Parsley: A lovely garnish that gives a pop of color and freshness to the dish before serving.
Is French Style Braised Short Ribs Good for You?
Now, let’s chat a bit about whether this delectable dish aligns with health goals! Sure, beef short ribs are rich (let’s embrace that!), and while they’re not a everyday staple for health-conscious eaters, they do bring some benefits to the table.
Beef Short Ribs: Packed with protein, which is great for muscle repair, alongside essential vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc.
Vegetables: The onion, carrots, and celery are loaded with nutrients. Not to mention, that beautiful color they add!
Red wine has been studied for its potential heart health benefits in moderation. However, as with everything delicious, balance is key! Enjoy these ribs occasionally, and if you’re looking for a lighter option, serving them over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes will hit the spot without guilt.
Ingredients
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups red wine (preferably a dry French wine)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 teaspoons tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions, perfect for dosh at a dinner party or leftovers throughout the week.
How to Make French Style Braised Short Ribs?
Alright, you lovely humans! Here’s how to bring this flavorful dish to life:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and start dreaming about how delicious this is going to be.
2. Generously season those beef short ribs with salt and black pepper on all sides. Make it loveable!
3. In a large Dutch oven or any oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add those beauties and sear them until they’re beautifully browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side. Once they are caramelized, remove them and set aside.
4. In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften up—around 5-7 minutes. Then, add in minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in that lovely red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (that’s flavor gold!). Bring to a simmer and let it reduce by half—roughly 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, fresh thyme, and bay leaf. Oh, that aroma is heavenly! Return the short ribs to the pot, allowing them to be mostly submerged in that luscious liquid.
7. Cover your pot and transfer it to the oven. Let it braise for about 3 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
8. Once it’s all done, remove the pot from the oven and let those ribs rest for a few minutes. Don’t forget to skim off any excess fat from the braising liquid to keep it clean.
9. Serve those sumptuous short ribs over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. Don’t be shy with the braising sauce and vegetables on top! Lastly, sprinkle some fresh parsley for garnish.
Serving Suggestions for the Stars!
Once you’re ready to serve, pair this dish with a lovely green salad or some garlicky green beans to balance it out. And for drinks? A glass of the same red wine you used for cooking is the perfect complement—you deserve it!
So, my wonderful friends, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves, pull out your favorite apron, and give these French Style Braised Short Ribs a whirl! I promise you’ll impress your taste buds and those lucky enough to share the table with you. Don’t forget to send me pics and let me know how they turn out! Happy cooking!
