Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Drying the meat helps achieve a golden-brown crust during searing.
- Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear ribs on all sides until deeply browned (about 3–4 minutes per side).
- You should hear a steady sizzle. This caramelization (Maillard reaction) builds flavor.
- Remove ribs and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook until fragrant and slightly darkened.
- Step 4: Deglaze
- Pour in red wine. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits (fond). Let wine reduce by half.
- This step intensifies flavor.
- Step 5: Braise
- Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Return ribs to pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Cover and transfer to oven. Cook 2.5–3 hours until fork-tender.
- The meat should pull apart effortlessly.
- Step 6: Finish the Sauce
- Remove ribs carefully. Simmer sauce uncovered until thickened and glossy.
- Skim excess fat if desired.
- Return ribs to sauce and spoon over before serving.
Notes
Always sear thoroughly for maximum flavor.
Don’t rush the braising time.
Keep liquid at a gentle simmer, not a boil.
Let ribs rest 10–15 minutes before serving.
Make ahead for even better flavor the next day.
