There’s something incredibly comforting about sinking your teeth into tender, juicy short ribs, especially when they’re braised in apple cider! The moment I first tried this dish, I was hooked—the sweet and tangy notes of the cider beautifully complement the rich, beefy flavor of the short ribs. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. I remember making this for the first time during a fall dinner party, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! Trust me, once you try these apple cider braised short ribs, you’ll want to make them a regular on your dinner table. The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these apple cider braised short ribs truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 lbs beef short ribs, bone-in for maximum flavor
- 2 cups apple cider, the real stuff for the best taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped finely to enhance the sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced to add depth
- 2 carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces for sweetness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for that perfect sear
- 2 teaspoons salt, adjust to your taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if possible
- 2 sprigs thyme, fresh for an aromatic touch
- 1 bay leaf, to infuse even more flavor
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking; it makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Now, let’s dive into the delicious process of making these apple cider braised short ribs! Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C)—this low and slow method is what makes the meat so tender.
- While the oven heats up, season your 3 lbs of beef short ribs generously with 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Don’t be shy—this helps to build flavor!
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add the short ribs. Sear them on all sides until they’re beautifully browned—this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. The browning adds so much depth!
- Once browned, remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate. Now, toss in 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 chopped carrots. Sauté these until they’re softened, around 5 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Next, pour in 2 cups of apple cider and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot—this is pure flavor magic.
- Return the short ribs to the pot, adding 2 sprigs of fresh thyme and 1 bay leaf. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Let it cook for about 3 hours. This is where the magic happens—the short ribs will become irresistibly tender and soak up all that delicious cider flavor.
After the time is up, you’ll be left with a mouthwatering dish that’s just begging to be served. Enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your home while you wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—get everything ready in just 20 minutes!
- Rich, sweet, and savory flavor from the apple cider that elevates the dish.
- Ultimate comfort food—perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.
- Gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone at the table.
- Impressive enough for special occasions yet simple enough for weeknight dinners.
Tips for Success with Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
To really nail these apple cider braised short ribs, here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way. First, choose high-quality beef short ribs—look for ones with good marbling for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you have the time, let the seasoned ribs rest for about 30 minutes before searing; it helps the flavors soak in.
When it comes to storing leftovers, let the ribs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of apple cider or broth to keep them moist—no one likes dry meat! And don’t forget to serve these with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce! Trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Nutritional Information for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
When diving into these hearty apple cider braised short ribs, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 rib):
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
This dish is packed with protein and rich flavors, making it a satisfying choice for any meal! Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s a hearty dish that brings a lot to the table.
FAQ about Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Can I use another type of meat instead of short ribs?
Absolutely! While beef short ribs are my favorite for this recipe, you could use pork shoulder or even chicken thighs for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute if I don’t have apple cider?
If you’re out of apple cider, you can use apple juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for that tangy flavor. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still work in a pinch!
How do I know when the short ribs are done?
You’ll know they’re done when the meat is fork-tender and practically falls off the bone. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of around 190°F (88°C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! These apple cider braised short ribs actually taste better the next day. Just let them cool completely before storing them in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving.
What’s the best way to serve these ribs?
Serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or on a bed of polenta to soak up all that luscious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables also complements this dish beautifully!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
These apple cider braised short ribs are a star on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate the entire meal! I love serving them alongside creamy mashed potatoes—there’s nothing quite like soaking up that rich sauce. Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, add a lovely touch of color and sweetness. You could also go for a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the flavors. And don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping; it’s a must! Enjoy creating your perfect plate!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
To store your leftover apple cider braised short ribs, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals later in the week!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the ribs on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of apple cider or beef broth to help keep them moist and flavorful. Stir occasionally until they’re warmed through. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Trust me, the rich flavors will come alive again, and you’ll be left craving more!
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Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender short ribs braised in apple cider for a rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 sprigs thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned.
- Remove short ribs and set aside.
- Add onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot. Sauté until softened.
- Pour in the apple cider and bring to a simmer.
- Return short ribs to the pot, add thyme and bay leaf.
- Cover and transfer to the oven.
- Cook for 3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Make ahead and reheat for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: apple cider braised short ribs
