Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests with a truly unforgettable dish? Then look no further! This smoked beef short ribs recipe is your ticket to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich, smoky flavor. It's surprisingly easier than you think to achieve restaurant-quality results at home, making it perfect for both seasoned pitmasters and those just starting their culinary adventures in homemade cooking. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal option, perfect as a quick dinner idea or a centerpiece for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef short ribs, bone-in
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Preparing the Short Ribs:
- Pat the beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over the short ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Smoking the Short Ribs:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If using a pellet smoker, select a hardwood like hickory or mesquite for that authentic smoky flavor.
- Place the seasoned short ribs on the smoker grates.
- Smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce the meat with a fork.
- During the last hour of smoking, pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar into a smoker-safe pan and place it under the short ribs. This will help baste the meat and keep it moist.
Finishing and Serving:
- Once the short ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the smoker and let them rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Slice the short ribs against the grain and serve immediately. You can serve them on their own, over mashed potatoes, with roasted vegetables, or as part of a delicious and healthy meal.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Ensure there's enough space between the short ribs for even cooking and good smoke circulation.
- Monitor the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 195-205°F (90-96°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Experiment with wood chips: Different types of wood chips will impart different flavors. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.
- Consider a dry brine: For even more flavor, consider dry-brining the short ribs for several hours or overnight before smoking.
Variations:
- BBQ Glaze: During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the short ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage to the spice rub for an herbaceous twist.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chipotle powder for a spicier result.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the short ribs and the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact recipe details. However, expect a high protein content and moderate fat, making it a satisfying and energy-rich meal.
This easy recipe is a great way to enjoy delicious and healthy meals using simple techniques and readily available ingredients. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Enjoy!