Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of slow cooker short ribs, a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow cooking process transforms tough cuts of meat into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth delight. Paired with a savory sauce, these short ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 8 hours on low heat in the slow cooker.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 350 calories, 25g of fat, 30g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the short ribs for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the short ribs and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
- Stir in beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Serve garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute red wine with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version. Additionally, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
Slow cooker short ribs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or a side of roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad also complements the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not searing the meat can result in less flavor.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker may lead to uneven cooking.
- Using too much liquid can make the dish watery.
- Skipping the deglazing step may lose essential flavors.
- Not allowing the ribs to rest before serving can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Let the dish sit overnight for even better flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen short ribs?
Yes, you can use frozen short ribs, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Make sure they are properly thawed for best results before searing.
What is the best way to serve short ribs?
Serve short ribs atop creamy mashed potatoes or polenta, topped with the rich sauce for a delicious pairing.
Can I cook short ribs on high heat?
While you can cook on high heat, low and slow is recommended for tender, flavorful meat. High heat may lead to tougher texture.
How do I know when the short ribs are done?
Short ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. A meat thermometer should read at least 190°F for perfect tenderness.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor in the sauce.
Conclusion
This slow cooker short ribs recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting and rich meal with minimal effort. With tender meat and a savory sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Try it out and savor the flavors!
Slow Cooker Short Ribs
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the short ribs for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the short ribs and place them in the slow cooker.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
- Stir in beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Serve garnished with fresh herbs if desired.