Get ready for some super tender beef short ribs that are a real treat! Cooking them slowly in a cooker makes them melt-in-your-mouth good, to the point you might lick your plate clean!
These ribs are rich in flavor thanks to some yummy spices and a bit of broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, they make your kitchen smell amazing. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: These are the star of the dish, packed with flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find short ribs, try beef chuck or brisket for a similar outcome, though cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you could use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. The important part is to get the ribs nice and browned.
Onion and Garlic: They add a lovely base flavor. You could swap the onion for shallots or onion powder, and garlic can be fresh or even garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, just use more beef broth or even grape juice for a slight sweetness without the wine.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary really enhance the aroma. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work well too. Just reduce the quantity, as dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
How Do I Brown the Ribs for Maximum Flavor?
Browning the ribs before placing them in the slow cooker is an essential step. It creates a nice crust that adds depth to the flavor. Here’s how:
- Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
- Once hot, add the ribs (don’t overcrowd the pan). Brown for about 3-4 minutes on all sides until they are deep golden.
- This caramelization brings a lot of flavor, so don’t rush it!
After browning, feel free to deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth or wine to scrape up those tasty bits before adding to the slow cooker.
How to Make Super Tender Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, or replace with more beef broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you pop everything into the slow cooker, you’ll let it cook for 7-8 hours on low. The result? Beef short ribs that are so tender, they practically fall off the bone. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and black pepper on all sides. This will help enhance the flavor as they cook.
2. Brown the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This adds wonderful flavor! After browning, transfer the ribs to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, tomato paste, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. These bits are packed with flavor!
5. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker:
Pour this flavorful mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker. Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf on top.
6. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours. You know it’s done when the meat is extremely tender and falling off the bone.
7. Final Touches:
After cooking, remove the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. If you’d like a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and boil it until it reduces to your desired thickness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve those tender short ribs hot, generously spooning the delicious sauce over the top. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted veggies. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Short Ribs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen short ribs! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and browning. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker results.
How to Adjust Cooking Time for Different Ribs?
If you’re using larger or smaller ribs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. For larger ribs, consider increasing the cooking time by an hour, while smaller ones may be done about 30 minutes to an hour earlier. Always check for tenderness!
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the short ribs up to a day ahead. Just follow all the steps, then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them on the stove or in the slow cooker on low until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
