Creamy Herb Braised Short Ribs Recipe

Introduction

Imagine sinking your fork into tender, succulent short ribs that have been braised to perfection in a creamy herb-infused sauce. The rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture make this recipe a true showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a comforting meal, these creamy herb braised short ribs are sure to impress.

Originating from traditional French cuisine, braising is a cooking technique that involves slowly cooking meat in liquid until it becomes tender and flavorful. In this recipe, we take it a step further by adding a creamy herb sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this creamy herb braised short ribs recipe:

1. Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tender

The slow braising process ensures that the short ribs become incredibly tender, allowing the meat to effortlessly fall off the bone.

2. Flavorful Herb-infused Sauce

The creamy herb sauce is packed with aromatic herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley, which infuse the meat with a delightful medley of flavors.

3. Easy to Make

While this recipe may sound fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish on your table.

4. Perfect for Special Occasions

These creamy herb braised short ribs are perfect for special occasions, date nights, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.

Ingredients

For this creamy herb braised short ribs recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 pounds beef short ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredient Substitutions:

If you prefer, you can make the following optional ingredient substitutions:

• Replace beef short ribs with bone-in beef chuck roast
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version
• Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create creamy herb braised short ribs:

Step 1: Preparing the Short Ribs

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or braising pan over medium-high heat.

4. Add the short ribs and sear them on all sides until browned. This will help lock in the flavors.

Step 2: Creating the Creamy Herb Sauce

1. Remove the seared short ribs from the pan and set them aside.

2. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

3. Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.

4. Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and chopped parsley.

5. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Braising the Short Ribs

1. Return the seared short ribs to the pan, nestling them into the creamy herb sauce.

2. Cover the pan with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.

3. Allow the short ribs to braise for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Once the short ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven.

2. Carefully transfer the short ribs to a serving platter, setting them aside to rest.

3. Strain the creamy herb sauce through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids and reserving the sauce.

4. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce for a smoother texture.

5. Pour the creamy herb sauce over the short ribs, ensuring they are generously coated.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your creamy herb braised short ribs turn out perfectly:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat

Opt for bone-in beef short ribs or bone-in beef chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness.

2. Sear the Meat Properly

Take the time to properly sear the short ribs before braising. This step adds depth of flavor and helps create a beautiful caramelized crust.

3. Use Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs provide the best flavor in the creamy herb sauce. If possible, use herbs from your garden or the freshest ones available at your local market.

4. Don’t Rush the Braising Process

Low and slow is the key to tender short ribs. Allow enough time for the meat to become fork-tender and fully infused with the flavors of the creamy herb sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe is already delicious as is, you can always customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

1. Wine-Braised Short Ribs

For a richer flavor profile, replace half of the beef broth with red wine. The wine adds complexity and depth to the creamy herb sauce.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Serve the creamy herb braised short ribs over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.

3. Vegetarian Option

If you’re following a vegetarian diet, you can substitute the beef short ribs with portobello mushrooms or seitan for a meaty texture.

Serving Suggestions

To truly savor the flavors of these creamy herb braised short ribs, consider the following serving suggestions:

1. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Pair the short ribs with creamy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The cauliflower’s subtle sweetness complements the richness of the dish.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and turnips, provide a delicious contrast to the creamy herb braised short ribs. The natural sweetness of the vegetables balances the savory flavors of the dish.

3. Red Wine Pairing

Enhance the dining experience by serving a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, alongside the short ribs. The wine’s robust flavors complement the richness of the meat.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about creamy herb braised short ribs:

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, these creamy herb braised short ribs can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen and intensify the longer they sit. Simply reheat the short ribs in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Absolutely! These short ribs freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

A: While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitution. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so adjust the quantities accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Indulge in a truly unforgettable culinary experience with these creamy herb braised short ribs. The tender meat, infused with the flavors of rosemary, thyme, and parsley, combined with the rich and creamy sauce, will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and get ready to savor every bite of these creamy herb braised short ribs. Bon appétit!