Craving a truly impressive, yet surprisingly easy, dinner party centerpiece? Look no further than these succulent grilled beef short ribs! This recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a rich, smoky flavor that will leave your guests begging for seconds. It's the perfect blend of homemade cooking and delicious dishes, ideal for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. Forget complicated recipes; this is a quick dinner idea even busy weeknights can handle.
Ingredients:
- 2 (3-4 pound) beef short ribs, bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs
Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Generously rub this spice mixture all over the short ribs, ensuring they're evenly coated.
Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the short ribs on the grill grates. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice crust forms. This step helps lock in the juices and develop a delicious char.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Reduce the grill heat to medium-low. Add the beef broth to the bottom of the grill, creating a shallow pan. This will help keep the meat moist during the slow cooking process. Place the short ribs back on the grill, ensuring they're above the broth. Cover the grill and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. You should be able to easily pull the meat away from the bone. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 195°F (90°C).
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove the short ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. Slice the short ribs against the bone and serve immediately.
Tips for Grilling Success:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in short ribs offer superior flavor and tenderness. The bone adds richness to the meat during cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the short ribs enough space to sear properly. If necessary, grill them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your short ribs are cooked to perfection.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the short ribs and your grill's heat. Always check for doneness.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup during the last 30 minutes of cooking adds a delightful touch of sweetness.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different spice blends, such as chipotle powder or ancho chili powder.
- Herb infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the grill during cooking for a fragrant boost.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 35-45g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.
This grilled beef short rib recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes transforming into truly impressive meals. The rich flavor, tender texture, and relatively simple cooking method make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking efforts! This is guaranteed to become one of your best recipes.