Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a delightful dish that transforms bone-in beef short ribs into a tender, flavorful meal. This recipe showcases the richness of red wine and hearty vegetables, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. The unique slow-cooking method in a Dutch Oven allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an unforgettable comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Flavor: The combination of red wine and herbs infuses the ribs with rich taste.
• Tender Texture: Slow cooking ensures the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal at home.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish fits perfectly.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Using quality equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 Qt Dutch Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 6 Qt Dutch Oven: This versatile pot provides even heat distribution for perfect braising.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while building flavors.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for all your vegetables and meat 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 Base

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

Vegetables and Aromatics

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

Flavor Enhancers

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups wine (Cabernet Sauvignon)

Broth and Herbs

• 3 cups beef broth
• 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 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 about 5-6 minutes on each side.
3. Transfer browned meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add 1 diced onion to the pot.
2. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until translucent and softened.
3. Add 2 stalks diced celery and 2 diced carrots; cook for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

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

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine

1. Pour in 2 cups of wine; bring to a boil.
2. Lower heat to medium and simmer until reduced by half—about 15-20 minutes.

Step 7: Combine Broth and Herbs

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

Step 8: Braise in the Oven

Cover with the lid and transfer to the oven. Cook for about 2½ to 3 hours or until ribs are tender.

Step 9: Resting Period

Once cooked, transfer the meat to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm.

Step 10: Strain Sauce

Strain out vegetables from sauce using a fine mesh strainer; discard solids.

Step 11: Final Touches

Pour strained liquid back into pot; simmer until it thickens slightly before serving over short ribs.

How to Serve Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Serving Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a great way to impress your family or guests. This dish is rich, hearty, and pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce of the short ribs.

Over Egg Noodles

• Serve the short ribs over egg noodles for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.

With Fresh Bread

• A crusty loaf of bread is ideal for sopping up the delicious gravy. Consider serving it warm.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Pairing short ribs with sautéed or roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with fresh parsley or thyme to brighten the flavors and add a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• A light, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the short ribs and add some crunch.

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How to Perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

To make your Red Wine Braised Short Ribs even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance your cooking process and ensure perfect results every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled beef short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Brown the Meat Properly: Make sure to brown each piece well; this adds depth to the sauce.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow enough time for slow cooking; this is key for tender meat.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to ensure a balanced flavor.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the meat rest after cooking; this helps redistribute juices for better texture.
• Use Leftover Sauce Wisely: The strained sauce can be used as a base for other dishes or stored for later use.

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

Choosing complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair wonderfully with Red Wine Braised Short Ribs.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes meld perfectly with the rich sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, adding a delightful crunch.
3. Creamed Spinach: A decadent side that contrasts nicely with the hearty ribs.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweetness from carrots balances the savory flavors of the dish.
5. Polenta: Smooth polenta serves as an excellent base that absorbs all the delicious juices.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown wedges provide a satisfying texture alongside tender meat.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the dish.
8. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy favorite creates a cozy comfort food experience that complements everything else on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the meat first can result in less flavor. Always brown the short ribs to enhance their taste.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland ribs. Generously season your meat with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth or wine can dry out the ribs. Ensure you use the right amount of liquids for a moist outcome.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking for too long or too short can affect tenderness. Aim for 2 ½ to 3 hours for perfectly tender ribs.
• Neglecting to strain the sauce: Leaving the vegetables in the sauce can make it gritty. Always strain your sauce for a smooth texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• You can freeze the short ribs for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and cover the ribs with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat on low, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I cook Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven?

Cook them for about 2 ½ to 3 hours at 350°F until they’re fork-tender.

Can I use different wine for this recipe?

Yes, any dry red wine works well. Cabernet Sauvignon is recommended, but Merlot or Pinot Noir are also great options.

What side dishes pair well with Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?

Mashed potatoes, polenta, or a simple green salad complement this dish beautifully.

How do I know when the short ribs are done?

They should be very tender and easily pull apart with a fork when they are done cooking.

Final Thoughts

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is an incredible comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and impress your family and friends!