Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a mouthwatering dish that showcases the rich flavors of tender beef slow-cooked in a savory gravy. This recipe not only delivers an impressive meal for special occasions but also serves as a comforting option for everyday family dinners. With its deep umami notes from red wine and herbs, these short ribs will melt in your mouth, making it a standout choice for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Flavorful: The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes fall-apart tender, infused with delicious flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal active cooking time, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, these short ribs are sure to impress.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is rich and filling, making it an ideal comfort food during colder months.
• Versatile Leftovers: Enjoy the short ribs on their own or use them in sandwiches or salads for exciting next-day meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure your cooking experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 Qt Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 6 Qt Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture, perfect for braising meat.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware surfaces, this tool helps stir ingredients without scratching your pots.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs is the best recipe for tender fall apart bone-in beef short ribs slow cooked with gravy in a Dutch Oven. This is a perfect comfort meal you can make at home for your friends and family!

For the Short Ribs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 pounds bone-in short ribs (8-10 pieces)
• Salt (pepper to taste)

For the Vegetables

• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (crushed)

For the Liquid

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups wine (Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 3 cups beef broth

For Seasoning

• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 sprig oregano

How to Make Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To start, let’s preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

1. Rinse and pat dry the meat.
2. Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Brown the Short Ribs

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your 6 Qt Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the meat in two batches for about 5-6 minutes on each side.
3. Once browned, transfer the short ribs to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add one diced onion to the pot.
2. Cook for 8-10 minutes until translucent and softened.
3. Stir in 2 stalks of diced celery and 2 diced carrots; cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

1. Mix in 3 cloves of smashed garlic along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
2. Cook everything together for a few more minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine

1. Pour in 2 cups of Cabernet Sauvignon wine.
2. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and let it simmer until it reduces by half (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 7: Add Beef Broth

Stir in 3 cups of beef broth until well combined.

Step 8: Combine Everything

1. Return the browned short ribs back into the pot.
2. Add bay leaves, thyme, and oregano.

Step 9: Transfer to Oven

Cover with the lid and place your Dutch oven into the preheated oven.

Step 10: Slow Cook

Cook for about 2½ to 3 hours or until the ribs are tender.

Step 11: Rest the Meat

Once done, transfer the meat to a plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest.

Step 12: Strain Sauce

Strain out any vegetables from the sauce; discard them.

Step 13: Thicken Sauce

Pour back the liquid into the pot and simmer until it thickens slightly before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven!

How to Serve Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Serving Red Wine Braised Short Ribs is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy dinner, these tender ribs can be complemented with various sides and garnishes.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for soaking up the rich gravy from the ribs, adding a velvety texture to each bite.

Over Buttered Noodles

• Serve the short ribs over buttered egg noodles for a hearty meal. The noodles will absorb the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips work wonderfully with this dish.

With Crusty Bread

• A loaf of crusty bread is excellent for mopping up any remaining sauce. It adds an enjoyable crunch and complements the tender meat.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

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How to Perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

To achieve perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select bone-in short ribs with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Brown Thoroughly: Don’t rush the browning step; this builds a deep flavor base for your sauce.
• Use Good Wine: Opt for a Cabernet Sauvignon that you enjoy drinking. The quality of wine greatly influences the final taste.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Allow the ribs to cook undisturbed, as low temperatures break down connective tissues, resulting in tender meat.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the meat rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring moist short ribs.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs pair well with various side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs perfectly with rich gravy.

2. Sautéed Green Beans
   Lightly sautéed green beans add freshness and crunch, balancing out the heaviness of the ribs.

3. Creamed Spinach
   A classic side dish that brings creamy texture and a hint of nuttiness to complement the meat.

4. Roasted Root Vegetables
   A mix of carrots, potatoes, and beets roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and color to your plate.

5. Cauliflower Gratin
   This cheesy baked dish offers indulgence while providing a different flavor profile alongside the ribs.

6. Polenta Cakes
   Soft polenta cakes topped with Parmesan create an excellent contrast in textures while absorbing all those delicious juices.

7. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
   Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed with bacon lend smokiness that pairs wonderfully with braised short ribs.

8. Herb Rice Pilaf
   Lightly seasoned rice pilaf is an easy side that absorbs sauces well, making it an ideal companion for your short ribs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the seasoning – Always season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper before browning them. This enhances the meat’s flavor significantly.
• Not browning the meat properly – Browning the short ribs creates depth in flavor. Make sure to brown them on all sides for about 5-6 minutes each.
• Overcrowding the pot – If you add too many ribs at once, they may steam instead of brown. Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
• Ignoring the simmering time – Letting the wine reduce is crucial for flavor concentration. Don’t rush this step; it should simmer until reduced by half.
• Forgetting to strain the sauce – Straining the sauce after cooking helps remove any unwanted solids and gives you a smooth gravy that enhances your dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Place cooled ribs and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover ribs with foil, and heat for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries answered.

How long does it take to cook Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven?

Cooking time is approximately 2 ½ to 3 hours at 350°F until the ribs are tender.

Can I use other types of wine?

Yes! While Cabernet Sauvignon is preferred, you can use other full-bodied red wines like Merlot or Zinfandel for different flavors.

What can I serve with Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?

These short ribs pair well with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Are there any variations I can try?

Feel free to customize by adding mushrooms or different herbs like rosemary for unique flavors in your dish.

Final Thoughts

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a heartwarming meal that brings comfort and joy. Its versatility allows customization based on your taste preferences. Whether hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try!