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Braised Apple Cider Short Ribs

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Braised Apple Cider Short Ribs are tender, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs slow-cooked in a rich, aromatic blend of apple cider, herbs, and broth. Perfect for autumn meals and special occasions, this comforting dish combines savory depth with a touch of seasonal sweetness.

Ingredients

  • 3–4 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups apple cider (non-alcoholic)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Pat the short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add onions and carrots to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  5. Deglaze with apple cider, scraping up any browned bits. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and apple cider vinegar (if using).
  6. Return short ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, until ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
  8. Remove the ribs and strain the braising liquid. Return strained liquid to the pot and simmer until reduced into a thick sauce.
  9. Serve ribs topped with the sauce alongside mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Use fresh, non-alcoholic apple cider for best flavor.
  • Braising ahead of time enhances flavor—reheat gently before serving.
  • To thicken the sauce faster, use a cornstarch slurry or mash a few vegetables into the liquid.
  • Ribs can be frozen after cooling completely—reheat with a splash of broth or cider.
  • Sear ribs in batches to ensure even browning and flavor development.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/braised-apple-cider-short-ribs/