French Style Braised Short Ribs

As the seasons change and the air gets crisper, our palates start craving those hearty, comforting meals that warm us from the inside out. What could be more satisfying than a plate of tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs, bathed in a rich, aromatic sauce? This French-style braised short ribs recipe is just what you need to welcome the cozy vibes of the colder months. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and your stomach with wholesome goodness.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

This recipe serves up to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. You’ll need:

• 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into 3-4 inch pieces
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• 5 cups beef broth (a great alternative to wine for depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds that extra umami)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 heads of garlic, with the tops removed (for roasting whole)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions: Crafting Comfort

Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) if you prefer oven-braising. Over medium-high heat, sear the beef ribs in a large, oven-safe saucepan until they are browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, set the ribs aside and drain any excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for the vegetables.

Building the Base

Add the onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pan, sautéing them until tender, which should take around 7-10 minutes. Next, stir in the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about a minute.

The Braising Liquid

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add the tomato paste, whole heads of garlic, balsamic vinegar, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Return the ribs to the pan, making sure they are submerged in this rich liquid.

Time to Braise

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2-3 hours. If you’re using the oven, this is the time to transfer your pan into it. Alternatively, you could place everything in a slow cooker. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is so tender it falls off the bone with little effort.

The Finishing Touches

Before serving, discard the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the ribs over a bed of mashed potatoes, celery root puree, parsnips, or even pasta. Don’t forget the crusty bread on the side for dipping into the savory sauce. A garnish of fresh parsley and the sweet, softened cloves of garlic squeezed from their skins rounds off this exquisite dish.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Meal

This French Style Braised Short Ribs recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It brings together the robust flavors of beef, vegetables, and herbs in a dish that’s deeply satisfying. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this recipe promises a delicious escape into the world of French cuisine, right from the comfort of your home. Bon Appétit!

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