Rich, tender Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs are the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing. Imagine sinking your fork into a piece of meat so succulent it practically melts in your mouth, paired with the deep flavors of red wine that wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture yourself seated at a beautifully set table with friends or family, the aroma wafting through the air sparking conversations and laughter. Whether it’s a cozy date night in or a festive gathering, these short ribs promise to create memories that linger long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
- This incredible Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
The first time I made these ribs, my family looked at me as if I had just returned from culinary school. The oohs and ahhs were music to my ears, and I knew I was onto something special.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-In Beef Short Ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness; they truly shine when braised.
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Red Wine: A full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the richness; don’t skimp on quality here.
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Onions: Sweet onions add depth; sauté until caramelized for an irresistible sweetness.
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Carrots: Use fresh carrots for color and natural sweetness; they’ll complement the savory meat beautifully.
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Celery: Adds an aromatic base; be sure to chop it finely for even cooking.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a fragrant punch; use whole cloves for mellower notes when braised.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to better control saltiness in the final dish.
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): These herbs elevate flavor complexity; fresh works best but dried can substitute in a pinch.
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Olive Oil: For browning the meat and vegetables; extra virgin adds rich flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning at various stages; don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients and chopping your vegetables. This organized approach makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable as aromas begin to fill your kitchen.
Sear the Ribs: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven until shimmering. Season short ribs generously with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Sear until browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—releasing delightful savory scents.
Add Aromatics and Deglaze: Remove ribs temporarily from the pot. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened—about 5 minutes—then pour in red wine to deglaze. Scrape up those lovely brown bits stuck at the bottom for extra flavor!
Braise Away!: Return short ribs to the pot along with beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and let simmer gently on low heat for about 3 hours or until meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Serve It Up!: Once done braising, remove ribs from pot and let rest briefly while you strain sauce if desired. Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta—your taste buds will thank you!
Enjoying every morsel of these Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs will make you feel like you’ve reached culinary heaven!
This dish will make your kitchen smell like a five-star restaurant in no time. The rich aroma of simmering red wine, tender short ribs, and aromatic herbs fills the air, making you the culinary superstar of your household.
You Must Know About Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs This showstopping Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the short ribs until they’re golden brown. This develops flavor. While they’re cooking, chop your veggies so everything is ready to go when it’s time to deglaze the pan. Then, add your wine and broth to create a luscious sauce. This sequence ensures a rich flavor profile with minimal fuss.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the red wine for a hearty beer if you’re feeling adventurous. You could also toss in some mushrooms for an earthy twist or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing! Personalizing this dish gives it a unique flair that matches your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm them on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep things moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
- This professional-quality Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing my first attempt at Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs brings back memories of my friends raving about them as they licked their plates clean—no shame there! Their laughter was music to my ears as I realized I’d finally nailed a recipe that brought people together.
FAQ
What wine is best for braising short ribs?
A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best—these wines add depth and complexity to your dish while enhancing flavors during cooking.
Can I use other cuts of meat?
Yes! While short ribs are ideal, you can substitute beef chuck or brisket. Just adjust your cooking time according to the cut’s tenderness.
How long should I braise short ribs?
Braise them low and slow for around two and a half to three hours until they become fork-tender, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
What should I serve with Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs?
Serve these beauties over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting touch. Add roasted vegetables or a fresh salad on the side for balance.
Conclusion for Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
In summary, mastering Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs is an exercise in patience and love. Follow these tips—sizzling sears, personal touches, and caring storage—and you’ll create an unforgettable meal that warms hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy every bite while basking in compliments from those lucky enough to share your table!
Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs
Rich and tender, Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs are a culinary delight that brings warmth and comfort to any dining experience. This dish features succulent, melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs, slow-cooked in a robust red wine sauce infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Ideal for special occasions or cozy family dinners, these short ribs promise to impress your guests and create lasting memories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
- 2 cups full-bodied red wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, whole
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the vegetables.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them until browned on all sides (3-4 minutes per side). Remove from pot.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up brown bits.
- Return short ribs to the pot with beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 3 hours until meat is tender.
- Remove ribs from pot; strain sauce if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or polenta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (170g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added depth of flavor, consider substituting red wine with a hearty beer. - Feel free to include mushrooms for an earthy touch or balsamic vinegar for a hint of sweetness.







