Are you looking for a show-stopping, melt-in-your-mouth main course that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Traeger short ribs recipe delivers unbelievably tender, flavorful short ribs with minimal effort. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of low-and-slow cooking with your Traeger grill!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Preparing the Short Ribs:
- Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and develop a nice crust.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Rub the spice mixture generously all over the short ribs.
Cooking on the Traeger:
- Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (107°C). Set it for indirect heat.
- Sear the short ribs on all sides in a little olive oil over medium-high heat on the Traeger until nicely browned. This step adds incredible flavor.
- Place the seared short ribs in a disposable aluminum pan.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery around the short ribs.
- Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the pan.
- Smoke the short ribs for 6-8 hours, or until they are fork-tender and easily pull apart. You should check for tenderness around the 6-hour mark.
Serving Suggestions:
Once the short ribs are cooked, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. You can shred the meat with two forks for easier serving. Serve these delicious short ribs with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad all complement this rich dish perfectly.
Tips for Traeger Short Rib Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space for the short ribs to brown properly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure the ribs reach a safe internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C) before removing from the smoker.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your short ribs and your Traeger's performance. Always check for tenderness.
- Add more liquid: If the liquid in the pan evaporates too quickly, add a little more beef broth or water to prevent the short ribs from drying out.
Variations:
- BBQ Short Ribs: After smoking, brush the short ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Short Ribs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice rub for a little heat.
- Herb-infused Short Ribs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano in your spice rub.
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 and input your specific ingredients and serving sizes. However, expect a high protein content and moderate fat content.
This Traeger short rib recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the deliciousness of fall-off-the-bone meat. The smoky flavor from the Traeger adds a unique depth that you won't find anywhere else. Try it today and impress your family and friends with your grilling skills!