Are you craving a melt-in-your-mouth, fall-off-the-bone delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning is your answer. It's a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors that will impress your family and friends, and it’s surprisingly simple to achieve. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion – it's truly a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp oxtail seasoning (you can find this in most supermarkets or online)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Short Ribs
Pat the beef short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with oxtail seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that deep, flavorful crust.
Step 2: Browning the Short Ribs
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step creates a fantastic depth of flavor. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglazing the Pot
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This step is important for capturing all those delicious flavors. Add the thyme and bay leaf.
Step 5: Braising the Short Ribs
Return the short ribs to the pot. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for at least 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and easily falls off the bone. You can also transfer this to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for the same braising time.
Step 6: Serving
Once the short ribs are cooked, remove them from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes. Skim any excess fat from the braising liquid. You can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes. Serve the short ribs over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the vegetables.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the braising liquid.
- Make it a slow cooker meal: Follow steps 1 & 2, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Leftovers: These short ribs are even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and portion size. However, expect a high protein, moderate fat content, and good source of iron.
This recipe for beef short ribs is a guaranteed winner, offering delicious flavors and a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the simple joy of homemade cooking and the rich rewards of this easy yet impressive recipe.