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As the chill of autumn settles in, I find myself in a delicious dilemma: how to warm both my kitchen and my heart. The answer? This apple cider braised short ribs recipe that’s become a staple in my home. With just 20 minutes of prep, these melt-in-your-mouth short ribs transform into tender delights, braised slowly in the fragrant embrace of apple cider and rich beef broth. It's an effortless way to bring comfort and joy to any chilly evening. Not only does this dish boast an undeniable richness, but it also pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. Ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your loved ones? Let's dive into this heartwarming recipe!
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Why are these short ribs a must-try?
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Experience the joy of fall-off-the-bone tenderness that will leave you wanting more.
Effortless preparation: With just 20 minutes of hands-on time, your kitchen will be filled with aromatic goodness while the oven takes care of the rest.
Aromatic flavors: The combination of apple cider and fresh herbs creates a rich, comforting taste that's truly irresistible, perfect for elevating your dinner.
Versatile pairing: Serve your succulent short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce—perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleasing dish: Impress family and friends alike, making it an ideal centerpiece for festive dinners or cozy gatherings this season. Want more delicious options? Check out my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for the perfect side!
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Short Ribs
• Bone-in beef short ribs – These are essential for that rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Apple cider – Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the braise.
• Beef broth – Creates a savory base that complements the cider beautifully.
For the Vegetables
• Onion – Sautéing this brings out its natural sweetness and adds layers of flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic essence, enhancing the overall taste.
• Carrots – They contribute a hint of sweetness and add vibrant color to the dish.
For the Herbs
• Thyme – Fresh thyme lends an earthy note that enhances the comforting flavor profile.
Get ready to fall in love with this apple cider braised short ribs recipe, truly a delightful dish to warm your heart and home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for apple cider braised short ribs recipe
Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Season bone-in beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot pot until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. This golden crust enhances the depth of flavor for your apple cider braised short ribs recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the short ribs and set them aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent. This step releases their natural sweetness, creating a wonderful base for your braise.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 1 cup of apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all those tasty browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cider to reduce slightly and infuse the vegetables with flavor. This will enhance the richness of your apple cider braised short ribs recipe.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Braising
Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them among the vegetables. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and add fresh thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch. The liquid should mostly cover the ribs. This balance of flavors is what makes these apple cider braised short ribs truly comforting.
Step 5: Braise in the Oven
Cover your Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow the mixture to braise for 2 to 3 hours, until the short ribs are fork-tender and the meat easily falls off the bone. You’ll know it’s done when the aroma fills your kitchen, making your heart happy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the short ribs rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve your delicious apple cider braised short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the remarkable sauce. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or apple cider if needed to keep them moist.
Serving after Freezing: After thawing, serve over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to enjoy the apple cider braised short ribs recipe at its best.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
As the rich aroma of tender short ribs fills your kitchen, let’s explore delightful companions to create a hearty meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture beautifully absorbs the rich sauce, offering a comforting contrast to the succulent ribs.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful sauce; it’s an essential element that brings the meal together.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispiness provide a beautiful balance, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Coleslaw: This tangy side introduces a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the braised short ribs perfectly.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Bright and tender, these provide a lovely pop of color and freshness, complementing the heaviness of the main dish.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the deep flavors, creating a luxurious dining experience with each sip.
- Spiced Pear Crisp: To finish, this warm dessert’s cinnamon notes echo the cider, offering an inviting sweet conclusion to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Not just for pasta, it’s ideal for savoring the remaining sauce on your plate—an irresistible addition to the experience.
Make Ahead Options
These apple cider braised short ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sear the short ribs and sauté the vegetables one day in advance, storing them in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply deglaze the pot with apple cider, combine everything back together, and braise it in the oven. To maintain quality, let the main components cool completely before refrigerating, and add a splash of broth if needed to keep them moist. With this make-ahead strategy, you'll have a hearty, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
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Choose the Right Ribs: Select bone-in beef short ribs for optimal flavor and tenderness; they create the rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience you'll love.
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Don’t Rush Searing: Allow time for the ribs to achieve a deep golden crust; this enhances the flavor and contributes to a delicious sauce in the final dish.
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Scrape Well: When deglazing with apple cider, scrape all the browned bits from the pot; these tiny morsels pack a flavorful punch that elevates your apple cider braised short ribs recipe.
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Monitor Braising Time: Keep an eye on the time; over-braising can dry out the meat. Check for fork-tenderness after 2 hours, but don’t hesitate to let it cook longer for optimal results.
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Rest Before Serving: Let your ribs rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking; this step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than 3 days; the flavors deepen beautifully upon reheating.
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Variations
Customize this delightful apple cider braised short ribs recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Let your creativity shine as you explore these variations.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute beef broth with a vegetable broth for a lighter, dairy-free option that still packs a punch.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables to bring a bit of heat to the dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika when seasoning the short ribs for a delicious smoky depth—perfect for those cozy nights.
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Vegetable Medley: Amp up the nutritional value by adding mushrooms and parsnips along with your onions and carrots, enriching the flavor and texture.
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Sweet & Savory: Swap out some apple cider for a splash of maple syrup to enhance sweetness, creating a beautiful balance between flavors.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs—try rosemary or sage alongside thyme for a unique twist and aromatic finish that comforts the soul.
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Red Wine Addition: Deglaze the pot with red wine instead of apple cider for a bold flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with the richness of the short ribs.
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Cider Reduction Sauce: After cooking, remove the ribs and reduce the braising liquid on the stovetop for a luscious, thicker sauce that elevates the dish—serve it drizzled over the short ribs.
Pair your creations with my easy-to-make Apple Goats Cheese Salad for a refreshing side or indulge in a slice of Carrot Cake for dessert.
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
What type of short ribs should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using bone-in beef short ribs. The bones add richness and flavor, creating the melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this apple cider braised short ribs recipe so delightful. You can easily find them at your local butcher or grocery store.
How should I store leftovers from this apple cider braised short ribs recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and tenderness, make sure it's sealed well. You'll find that the flavor deepens as it sits!
Can I freeze the short ribs after cooking? If so, how?
Very! For longer storage, freeze the cooked apple cider braised short ribs in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or apple cider to keep them moist.
What if my short ribs are tough after cooking?
If you find your ribs are still tough after cooking, don’t worry! Simply cover them and return them to the oven to braise for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. Remember, the key is low and slow cooking; if they’re not tender, give them a little more time. You want the meat to be fork-tender for that true heartwarming experience.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for someone with allergies, it’s good to know that apple cider braised short ribs can be adapted. Make sure the beef broth and apple cider you use don’t contain any allergens. As for pets, beef can be a tasty treat for dogs (in moderation!), but make sure there are no bones left for them to chew on after serving.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh thyme?
The more the merrier! If you don’t have fresh thyme on hand, you can substitute it with dried thyme. Use about one-third of the amount—1 teaspoon of dried thyme should work well instead of fresh. Just sprinkle it in when you add the broth to enjoy a wonderful herbal aroma!
Indulgent Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Season bone-in beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot pot until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the short ribs and set them aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
- Pour in 1 cup of apple cider, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all those tasty browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them among the vegetables. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and add fresh thyme sprigs.
- Cover your Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow the mixture to braise for 2 to 3 hours, until the short ribs are fork-tender.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let the short ribs rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
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