Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Bone-in Short Ribs; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 7 cloves Garlic (smashed); 1 bottle Campo Viejo Rioja Wine (any bold red wine works); 2 cups Water (using broth adds flavor); 1 tablespoon Beef Better Than Bouillon Base (can substitute with beef broth); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 4 stems Fresh Thyme (dried thyme can be used); 2 medium Carrots (chopped); 1 tablespoon Butter (optional); 2 pounds Russet Potatoes (peeled and chopped); 1 cup Gouda Cheese (can substitute cheddar or cream cheese); 1/2 cup Milk (any milk or plant-based version works)

As I watch the snowflakes dance outside, my kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of rich garlic and thyme, signaling a moment of bliss with my Tender Red Wine Braised Short Ribs. This recipe not only embraces the essence of a cozy winter dinner but also transforms humble short ribs into a melt-in-your-mouth delight everyone will adore. Braising these savory ribs in a luscious red wine reduction produces a depth of flavor that hugs you like a warm blanket. Paired with creamy gouda mashed potatoes, this dish creates a wonderful balance of textures and tastes, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Ready to indulge in this sensational comfort food? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why are Red Wine Braised Short Ribs a must-try?

Melt-in-your-mouth tenderness: These short ribs turn into a fall-off-the-bone sensation as they braise, providing the ultimate comfort food experience.

Rich, deep flavors: Slow-cooked in a luxuriously flavorful red wine reduction, this dish creates a symphony of tastes that rivals your favorite restaurant meals.

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Crowd-pleasing success: Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, everyone will gather around to enjoy this hearty masterpiece. Pair it with side dishes like Parmesan Roasted Red for an impressive meal.

Ultimate versatility: Feel free to swap in different wines or root veggies to elevate the dish to suit your tastes.

Time-saving flair: With a hands-on time of just 30 minutes, this recipe allows you to prep and relax while it braises, giving you the chance to spend time with your loved ones!

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Ingredients

• Dive into this delightful dish with essential ingredients that create the perfect comfort food experience.

For the Short Ribs

Bone-in Short Ribs – These provide the rich flavor and tenderness that make braising worth the wait.
Kosher Salt – Vital for seasoning and enhancing the flavors in the meat.
Black Pepper – A touch of mild heat to elevate the overall taste.
Olive Oil – Used for searing, this adds a delicious crust to the ribs.
Garlic – Smash 7 cloves for maximum depth and aromatic goodness.
Campo Viejo Rioja Wine – The key ingredient for a robust braising liquid; any bold red wine works too!
Water – To create the braising liquid; using broth adds even more flavor.
Beef Better Than Bouillon Base – Intensifies the beef flavor in every bite; substitute with beef broth if needed.
Tomato Paste – Balances flavors with its sweet and acidic profile.
Fresh Thyme – Adds a lovely herbal quality; dried thyme can be used in a more subtle amount.
Carrots – Introduce sweetness and texture; other root vegetables can easily swap in.
Butter – Optional, for enriching the sauce to a silky finish.

For the Gouda Mashed Potatoes

Russet Potatoes – The perfect base for creamy mashed goodness.
Gouda Cheese – Adds a delicious creaminess; cheddar or cream cheese are great substitutes!
Milk – Use to reach your desired creamy consistency; any milk or plant-based version works well.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This gentle heat will ensure that the red wine braised short ribs cook slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. As your oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, ensuring a smooth cooking process ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Short Ribs
Pat the bone-in short ribs dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a nice crust. Generously season all sides of the ribs with kosher salt and black pepper. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavors of the meat as it braises in the rich sauce, paving the way for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Sear the Short Ribs
In a large, heavy pot, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned short ribs, searing them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor to the red wine braised short ribs; once seared, remove the ribs and set them aside.

Step 4: Cook the Aromatics
Lower the heat slightly and add the tomato paste and seven smashed garlic cloves to the pot. Whisk the mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize and the garlic to release its aromatic goodness. This will create a wonderful base for the braising liquid that will envelop the short ribs in deliciousness.

Step 5: Add the Braising Liquid
Stir in the Campo Viejo Rioja wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This flavorful mixture will surround the short ribs, enhancing the dish’s rich profile. Once well combined, gently return the seared ribs to the pot, arranging fresh thyme on top for an aromatic touch.

Step 6: Braise in the Oven
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the red wine braised short ribs to cook for about 3 hours, or until they are fork-tender and easily pull apart. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you wait for this comforting meal to come together.

Step 7: Add the Carrots
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, carefully add chopped carrots to the pot. They will absorb the flavors of the braising liquid while adding a hint of sweetness and texture to the dish. Cover the pot again and let them simmer together, infusing the dish with even more deliciousness.

Step 8: Make the Gouda Mashed Potatoes
While the short ribs are finishing, prepare the gouda mashed potatoes. Boil peeled and chopped russet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them steam for a minute, ensuring they achieve the perfect creamy consistency for mashing.

Step 9: Mash and Mix
In a large bowl, mash the cooked potatoes until smooth. Gradually mix in milk and gouda cheese until you achieve your desired creamy texture. The gouda adds a delicious flavor that complements the comfort of the potatoes, making it a perfect pairing with the luscious red wine braised short ribs.

Step 10: Prepare the Sauce
Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside. Strain the braising liquid into a fat separator and then return the liquid to the pot, bringing it to a gentle boil. Allow it to reduce by half, which should take about 10-15 minutes, creating an intense, flavorful sauce to drizzle over your dish.

Step 11: Enrich the Sauce
Once the sauce has reduced, stir in a tablespoon of butter if desired, which will enrich the red wine sauce and add a silky finish. This step elevates the overall dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Keep the sauce warm while you prepare to serve the meal.

Step 12: Serve with Love
To serve, ladle a generous scoop of gouda mashed potatoes onto each plate, top with the tender short ribs and carrots, and drizzle the rich red wine sauce over everything. This warm and inviting meal is sure to warm hearts and appetites, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience!

Storage Tips for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors of the red wine braised short ribs will continue to deepen as they sit.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the short ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of broth for moisture if needed.

Airtight Storage: Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn, which can affect the flavor and texture of your delicious short ribs.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Wine Braised Short Ribs are a dream for meal prep! You can sear the short ribs and prepare the braising liquid up to 24 hours in advance, storing the seasoned ribs in the refrigerator while the liquid cools before sealing it in an airtight container. Additionally, the gouda mashed potatoes can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just add a splash of milk when reheating to return their creamy texture. When it’s time to serve, simply braise the ribs in the oven as directed, then finish making the sauce and mash the potatoes. This method offers convenience without sacrificing the rich, delicious flavors everyone loves!

Expert Tips for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Sear for Flavor: Make sure to sear the short ribs until they are golden brown; this caramelization adds incredible depth to the taste of your red wine braised short ribs.
Check for Tenderness: If the ribs aren’t as tender after the recommended 3 hours, don’t hesitate to braise them longer; each cut can vary in cooking time and tenderness.
Perfect Mashed Potatoes: For creamy gouda mashed potatoes, let the boiled potatoes steam for a minute after draining; this reduces moisture and ensures a fluffier texture.
Use a Good Wine: Choose a nice, bold red wine for the braising liquid; the quality of the wine significantly impacts the flavor of the final dish.
Strain the Sauce: Don’t skip straining the braising liquid; it removes any lumps and enhances the luxurious texture of the sauce that elevates your dish significantly.

What to Serve with Tender Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

The perfect pairing can elevate your meal into a heartwarming feast that sings of comfort and love.

Creamy Gouda Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, rich texture complements the tender short ribs beautifully, soaking up the luscious red wine sauce for a blissful bite.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, these vibrant veggies enhance the overall flavor profile and add a pop of color to your plate.
Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of that velvety sauce, this warm bread invites everyone to savor the moment together.
Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing medley of greens adds a bright contrast, balancing out the richness of the dish and refreshing your palate.
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative, this creamy side dish offers a delightful texture and a subtle garlic flavor that pairs perfectly with the robust ribs.
Red Wine: Consider a glass of the same bold red you used for braising. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the overall experience and continue the indulgence.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, the rich, molten center provides a delightful finish, leaving your guests with sweet memories long after the meal is over.

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Variations

Feel free to personalize these hearty short ribs with any of these delightful twists that will elevate your experience!

Stout Swap:
For a different flavor profile, substitute red wine with a rich stout. This creates a deep, malty taste that complements the beef beautifully.
Cheese Change:
Use blue cheese instead of gouda for a sharper, more robust flavor in your mashed potatoes. It adds a unique twist that cheese lovers will adore!
Root Veggie Remix:
Experiment with parsnips or turnips in place of carrots. These alternatives add a sweet earthiness that goes hand-in-hand with the rich sauce.
Herb Alternatives:
Replace fresh thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbal kick. Each herb can transform your dish, adding its own aromatic signature.
Wine Variety:
Switch the Campo Viejo Rioja with a bold cabernet sauvignon or syrah for varied flavor depths. Each wine brings a unique characteristic to the braising liquid.
Grain Upgrade:
Serve the ribs over creamy polenta instead of mashed potatoes for an elegant twist. The silky texture of polenta pairs perfectly with the luscious sauce.
Spicy Kick:
Add finely diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. This little kick can beautifully contrast the rich, comforting flavors of the dish.
Vegetarian Twist:
For a plant-based option, use mushrooms, jackfruit, or lentils in place of short ribs. Braise them in the same wine and spices for a satisfying dinner.

No matter how you choose to customize your Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, each variation retains the heartwarming essence of this classic dish! If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, you might enjoy Caramelized Slow Roast or a delightful Onion Beef Short for similarly luscious flavors.

Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right short ribs?
Absolutely! Look for bone-in short ribs that have a good amount of marbling—this intramuscular fat will melt during the braising process, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Ideally, choose ribs that are deep red and have a good thickness; avoid any pieces that look dried out or have a grayish color.

What’s the best way to store leftover short ribs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have extra sauce, store it separately to keep the texture intact. As the flavors meld together during storage, you might find the taste of your red wine braised short ribs becomes even more delightful!

Can I freeze red wine braised short ribs?
Yes, definitely! To freeze, allow the short ribs to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C), adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

What if my short ribs are tough after braising?
Not to worry! If your red wine braised short ribs aren’t as tender as you’d like after 3 hours, simply cover the pot tightly and let them braise longer. Check every 30 minutes to make sure they achieve that fork-tender quality. Remember, the cooking time can vary based on the cut’s thickness, so patience pays off!

Are there any dietary considerations for short ribs?
Certainly! While short ribs are rich in protein, they are also quite fatty, so those watching their fat intake might want to enjoy them in moderation. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using low-sodium broth, and double-check the wine used for sulfite sensitivities. And of course, always keep this dish away from pets due to the garlic and onions present.

How can I enhance the dish’s flavor further?
If you’re looking to elevate the flavor profile of your red wine braised short ribs, try adding aromatic spices like bay leaves or even a hint of cinnamon during the braising process. You can also sauté diced onions along with the garlic to create a more complex base. Experimenting with different red wines can yield delightful variations too!