Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe offers fall-apart tenderness, deep flavors, and an aromatic blend that is sure to impress. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner with friends, these short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection in a Dutch Oven, allowing the rich red wine and savory broth to infuse every bite. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight meal, this dish stands out as a true celebration of home cooking.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Short Ribs
• For the Vegetables
• For the Sauce
• How to Make Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Short Ribs
• Step 3: Brown the Meat
• Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
• Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
• Step 6: Deglaze with Wine
• Step 7: Combine Broth and Herbs
• Step 8: Return Meat to Pot
• Step 9: Braise in Oven
• Step 10: Resting Period
• Step 11: Strain Sauce
• Step 12: Thicken Sauce
• How to Serve Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Classic Plate Presentation
• Rustic Serving Style
• Elegant Dinner Setting
• Family-Style Serving
• How to Perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Best Side Dishes for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Reheating Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use any type of wine?
• How do I know when the short ribs are done?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What sides go well with braised short ribs?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender Meat: The slow cooking process makes the short ribs incredibly tender and flavorful.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine, beef broth, and herbs creates a rich sauce that elevates the dish.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these ribs fit right in.
• Versatile Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, polenta, or hearty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven: This versatile pot retains heat well and allows for even cooking, making it perfect for braising.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy cutting through vegetables and meat, crucial for prep work.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors in this dish.

Ingredients

For the Short Ribs

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

For the Vegetables

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

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups wine (Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 spring thyme
• 1 spring oregano

How to Make Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This sets the stage for slow-cooking your short ribs perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Short Ribs

1. Rinse and pat dry the meat thoroughly.
2. Generously season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your Dutch Oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the meat in two batches for about 5-6 minutes on each side.
3. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add 1 diced onion to the pot, cooking for 8-10 minutes until translucent.
2. Next, stir in 2 stalks of diced celery and 2 diced carrots; cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add 3 cloves of smashed garlic along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Cook for another few minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine

Pour in 2 cups of Cabernet Sauvignon wine:
1. Bring to a boil while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
2. Lower heat and let it simmer until reduced by half (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 7: Combine Broth and Herbs

Add in 3 cups of beef broth along with bay leaves, thyme, and oregano:
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 8: Return Meat to Pot

Carefully place the browned short ribs back into the pot:
1. Ensure they are submerged in liquid.

Step 9: Braise in Oven

Cover with a lid:
1. Transfer to preheated oven.
2. Cook for about 2½ -3 hours or until tender.

Step 10: Resting Period

Once cooked, transfer meat to a plate:
1. Cover with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

Step 11: Strain Sauce

Strain out any solids from your sauce:
1. Discard vegetables but keep that delicious liquid!

Step 12: Thicken Sauce

Return strained liquid back into pot:
1. Simmer until it thickens slightly before serving over your short ribs.

Enjoy your Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven as an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

Serving Red Wine Braised Short Ribs is all about enhancing the rich flavors of the dish. Here are some delicious ways to present and enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends.

Classic Plate Presentation

• Serve the short ribs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the flavorful gravy.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and freshness.

Rustic Serving Style

• Present the short ribs in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic look that invites sharing.
• Accompany with crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich sauce.

Elegant Dinner Setting

• Plate individual servings with a side of garlic sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables for an upscale dining experience.
• Use wine glasses filled with Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the flavors of the dish.

Family-Style Serving

• Place the entire pot on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves directly from the Dutch oven.
• Pair with a large salad featuring mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for balance.

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How to Perfect Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

To achieve tender and flavorful short ribs, follow these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

• Choose quality meat: Select well-marbled bone-in short ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor during cooking.
• Sear properly: Ensure you brown the meat thoroughly before braising; this adds depth to your sauce.
• Control temperature: Maintain a low simmer while cooking in the oven; high heat can dry out the meat.
• Thicken sauce wisely: After straining, simmer your sauce until it thickens naturally. Avoid adding cornstarch unless necessary.
• Rest before serving: Let the short ribs rest covered with foil after cooking; this helps retain moisture when slicing.
• Enhance flavors: Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the sauce’s flavor profile.

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

Pairing side dishes with Red Wine Braised Short Ribs can enhance this delicious meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a perfect base for soaking up the rich gravy.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted until caramelized adds sweetness and texture.
3. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta topped with butter and cheese complements the savory flavors of short ribs nicely.
4. Braised Greens: Sautéed kale or collard greens flavored with garlic provide a nutritious balance to this hearty dish.
5. Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness to your meal.
6. Crusty Bread: Serve a warm baguette or artisan bread on the side for dipping into delicious gravy.
7. Cauliflower Gratin: Creamy cheesy cauliflower gratin offers comfort and richness that pairs beautifully with beef.
8. Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to hearty short ribs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the meat properly before browning will lead to bland ribs. Always generously season with salt and pepper.
• Not browning the meat: Skimping on the browning step can result in less flavor. Ensure each side is browned well before moving on.
• Rushing the simmering process: If you don’t allow the wine to reduce, your sauce may end up too watery. Take your time during this step for a richer flavor.
• Ignoring cooking times: Shortening the cooking time can lead to tough ribs. Stick to the recommended 2½ to 3 hours for tender results.
• Forgetting to strain the sauce: Leaving vegetable bits in the sauce will make it gritty. Always strain after cooking for a smooth finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Place cooled short ribs and sauce in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven:

Can I use any type of wine?

Yes, while Cabernet Sauvignon is recommended, you can use other full-bodied red wines like Merlot or Zinfandel for great results.

How do I know when the short ribs are done?

The ribs should be fork-tender when they are ready. Check them after about 2½ hours of cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making Red Wine Braised Short Ribs a day ahead allows flavors to deepen. Just reheat gently before serving.

What sides go well with braised short ribs?

Serve these tender ribs with mashed potatoes, polenta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs in Dutch Oven is an irresistible recipe perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender beef and rich gravy offers comfort and satisfaction. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or vegetables according to your taste!