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Apple Cider-Braised Short Ribs

A cozy and flavorful dish featuring tender beef short ribs braised in rich apple cider, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2.5 pounds beef short ribs Look for well-marbled ribs.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust based on beef stock saltiness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Simple seasoning for the crust.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing; neutral-flavored recommended.
  • 1 large onion, chopped Yellow onion recommended.
  • 2 carrots, chopped Slice thicker to maintain texture.
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped Adds a vegetal bite.
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed Dissolves into the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Adds depth; avoid burning.
  • 2 cups apple cider Sweet and tangy; avoid spiced cider.
  • 2 cups beef stock Use low-sodium if possible.
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme Sub with dried thyme if needed.
  • 2 bay leaves Add whole; discard later.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 325°F.
  • Season short ribs with salt and black pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Brown short ribs on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in smashed garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Braising

  • Pour in apple cider and scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  • Add beef stock, thyme, and bay leaves. Nestle ribs back into the pot.
  • Cover and transfer to the oven, braising until meat is tender, about 2½ to 3 hours.

Finishing

  • Remove ribs and strain the braising liquid, discarding solids and skimming off excess fat.
  • Return the strained liquid to the pot and simmer until slightly reduced and thickened.
  • Plate the short ribs and spoon the reduced sauce over the top before serving.

Notes

Pairs well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles. Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of liquid.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 50gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10g
Keyword Apple Cider, Braising, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, short ribs
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