Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a dish that combines rich flavors with tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The slow cooking process in a Dutch oven allows the beef short ribs to absorb the savory notes of red wine and herbs, making every bite unforgettable. Get ready to impress your guests with this comforting and flavorful meal that showcases your culinary skills!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, providing warmth and satisfaction.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of red wine, herbs, and spices creates a deep, complex flavor that enhances the beef.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks at any skill level.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over mashed potatoes, polenta, or pasta for a delightful dinner option that pleases everyone.
• Impressive Presentation: The succulent beef short ribs look stunning when served, making them ideal for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven. These tools will help you achieve optimal results and enjoy the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 Qt Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 6 Qt Dutch oven: This heavy-duty pot ensures even heat distribution, essential for braising meat well.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while combining flavors smoothly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, saving time in meal prep.

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 Braise

• 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 Sauce

• 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 Short Ribs

1. Rinse and pat dry the meat and generously season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a 6 Qt Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the meat in two batches for 5-6 minutes on each side.
3. Transfer browned meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

1. Add 3 cloves smashed garlic and 2 tbsp tomato paste.
2. Cook for a few more minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine

1. Stir in 2 cups wine, bringing it to a boil.
2. Lower heat to medium; simmer until reduced by half (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 7: Add Broth and Seasoning

1. Pour in 3 cups beef broth; stir well.
2. Return the meat to the pot along with bay leaves, thyme, and oregano.

Step 8: Braise in Oven

1. Cover with lid and transfer pot to preheated oven.
2. Cook for 2½-3 hours until ribs are tender.

Step 9: Resting Period

1. Transfer cooked meat to a plate; cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 10: Finish Sauce

1. Strain sauce through a fine sieve; discard vegetables.
2. Pour liquid back into pot; simmer until sauce thickens.

Now you’re ready to savor your delicious Red Wine Braised Short Ribs! Enjoy every moment of this hearty dish prepared with love!

How to Serve Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Serving Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is all about enhancing the rich flavors of the dish. These tender ribs pair beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement their savory taste.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up the delicious sauce, making each bite a delight.

Over Polenta

• A creamy polenta adds a unique texture and flavor, balancing the richness of the short ribs perfectly.

Served with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is ideal for mopping up the sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for an added burst of color and freshness that enhances presentation.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus add a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty short ribs.

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How to Perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

To achieve perfection with your Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, follow these tips for optimal flavor and tenderness.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled bone-in short ribs for the best flavor and tenderness during cooking.

• Sear Well: Take time to brown the meat thoroughly. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization.

• Deglaze Properly: After sautéing vegetables, deglaze the pot with wine to lift flavorful bits from the bottom—this enhances your sauce.

• Low and Slow Cooking: Allow enough time for braising. Cooking at low temperatures for longer ensures that flavors meld beautifully.

• Rest Before Serving: Letting the meat rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, resulting in more succulent bites.

• Strain Sauce: Straining the sauce before serving creates a smooth texture, removing any solids while concentrating flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes whipped with garlic make a rich companion to soak up every drop of sauce.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and depth.

3. Creamed Spinach: This classic side offers creaminess that contrasts nicely against the savory flavors of the beef.

4. Buttered Noodles: Simple egg noodles tossed in butter provide a neutral base that complements the robust ribs.

5. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels sprouts mixed with crispy bacon create an irresistible savory side dish.

6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon adds brightness and balances out the richness of the ribs.

7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes, perfect for sopping up sauce.

8. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy dish is rich yet lighter than potatoes, giving another creamy element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, it’s easy to encounter pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your short ribs well can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper before browning.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ribs at once can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Brown in batches for a better sear.
• Ignoring vegetable prep: Failing to dice vegetables evenly may result in uneven cooking. Take time to chop them into similar sizes.
• Not reducing the wine: Skipping the step of reducing the wine can lead to overly strong flavors. Allow it to simmer until it’s reduced by half for a balanced taste.
• Removing the lid too soon: Taking off the lid while cooking can cause moisture loss, leading to dry ribs. Keep it covered to maintain tenderness.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking for less than recommended may result in tough meat. Be patient and allow enough time for the ribs to become tender.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Place cooled short ribs in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place ribs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of broth or wine if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven.

Can I use other types of wine?

Yes, you can use other full-bodied red wines like Merlot or Zinfandel if you prefer.

How do I know when short ribs are done?

Short ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone after cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish often tastes even better when made a day ahead as flavors meld together overnight.

What sides pair well with braised short ribs?

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

While traditional short ribs are not vegetarian, you could substitute with portobello mushrooms or hearty vegetables braised in red wine for a similar flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is an incredible comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This versatile recipe allows for customization; feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy tender, flavorful ribs that will impress everyone at your table!