There’s something so incredibly comforting about a slow-cooked meal, isn’t there? The way the aroma fills your home, inviting you to relax and unwind, makes it truly special. My absolute favorite is *short ribs slow cooker* style. Just thinking about it brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where we’d gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories while savoring tender, flavorful bites. The meat practically falls off the bone after simmering all day, and the rich sauce drizzled over everything is like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
What I love most is how simple it is to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you live your life. When you come home after a long day, the delicious scent greets you like an old friend, ready to whisk your worries away. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for your mouthwatering *short ribs slow cooker* dish. Gather these fresh ingredients to ensure a fantastic flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
Feel free to take your time with these ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that deep, rich flavor that makes this dish so special. Fresh veggies and quality meat are key, so don’t skimp on the good stuff! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
How to Prepare Short Ribs Slow Cooker
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part – preparing these delicious short ribs! This process is straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting meal.
Seasoning the Short Ribs
First things first, seasoning is key! I like to generously sprinkle salt and black pepper all over the short ribs. This step enhances the beefy flavor and sets the stage for deliciousness. Don’t be shy; give them a good rub, making sure every inch is covered. You’ll be amazed at how much this simple step elevates the dish!
Browning the Short Ribs
Next, we’re going to brown the short ribs, and trust me, this is where the magic begins! Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ribs in batches – you don’t want to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, golden brown crust. This step locks in all those yummy flavors and gives the dish a nice depth. Just be careful, it can splatter a bit!
Preparing the Vegetables
While the short ribs are browning, let’s prepare the veggies. Chop one onion, mince four cloves of garlic, and slice two carrots. I also like to chop up two stalks of celery – it adds a delightful crunch and flavor! Layer these chopped veggies in the bottom of your slow cooker. They’ll create a lovely bed for the ribs, soaking up all the flavorful juices as they cook.
Combining Ingredients
Once your short ribs are beautifully browned, it’s time to get everything into the slow cooker. Place the ribs right on top of those gorgeous veggies. Now, grab a bowl and mix together 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of red wine, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. This mixture is the secret sauce that brings everything to life! Pour it over the short ribs and veggies, making sure they’re all well-covered.
Cooking Time
Finally, cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 8 hours. Yes, that’s right! Just let it work its magic while you go about your day. You’ll want to check it occasionally, but really, it’s pretty much hands-off. When you return, you’ll find tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs that are bursting with flavor. It’s the ultimate reward after a long day!
How to Prepare Short Ribs Slow Cooker
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part – preparing these delicious short ribs! This process is straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting meal.
Seasoning the Short Ribs
First things first, seasoning is key! I like to generously sprinkle salt and black pepper all over the short ribs. This step enhances the beefy flavor and sets the stage for deliciousness. Don’t be shy; give them a good rub, making sure every inch is covered. You’ll be amazed at how much this simple step elevates the dish!
Browning the Short Ribs
Next, we’re going to brown the short ribs, and trust me, this is where the magic begins! Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ribs in batches – you don’t want to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, golden brown crust. This step locks in all those yummy flavors and gives the dish a nice depth. Just be careful, it can splatter a bit!
Preparing the Vegetables
While the short ribs are browning, let’s prepare the veggies. Chop one onion, mince four cloves of garlic, and slice two carrots. I also like to chop up two stalks of celery – it adds a delightful crunch and flavor! Layer these chopped veggies in the bottom of your slow cooker. They’ll create a lovely bed for the ribs, soaking up all the flavorful juices as they cook.
Combining Ingredients
Once your short ribs are beautifully browned, it’s time to get everything into the slow cooker. Place the ribs right on top of those gorgeous veggies. Now, grab a bowl and mix together 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of red wine, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. This mixture is the secret sauce that brings everything to life! Pour it over the short ribs and veggies, making sure they’re all well-covered.
Cooking Time
Finally, cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 8 hours. Yes, that’s right! Just let it work its magic while you go about your day. You’ll want to check it occasionally, but really, it’s pretty much hands-off. When you return, you’ll find tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs that are bursting with flavor. It’s the ultimate reward after a long day!
Tips for Success
Ready to make your *short ribs slow cooker* dish truly unforgettable? Here are some pro tips to help you nail it every time!
- Don’t rush the browning: This step is crucial for flavor! Take your time to get that nice crust on the ribs. It makes a world of difference.
- Use quality beef broth: The broth is the backbone of your sauce, so go for a good one. Homemade is best if you have it, but store-bought works fine too!
- Mix the sauce well: Make sure all the ingredients for the sauce are thoroughly combined before pouring it over the ribs. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
- Layer your ingredients: Remember, veggies on the bottom, ribs on top! This helps the vegetables cook evenly and soak up all those tasty juices.
- Don’t skip the resting time: If you can, let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more tender.
- Adjust for taste: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more salt or pepper can really enhance the dish!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to serving up the most delicious short ribs ever. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional values of your meal can be super helpful, especially when you’re trying to make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one serving of these delicious *short ribs slow cooker*:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 35g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But don’t worry too much about the numbers; just enjoy the incredible flavors and the comfort this dish brings to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. It’s like a magic kitchen helper!
- Tender, Flavorful Meat: The slow cooking process transforms tough short ribs into melt-in-your-mouth goodness that’s bursting with flavor.
- Rich, Savory Sauce: With a perfect blend of beef broth, red wine, and spices, the sauce is a delicious addition that elevates the whole dish.
- Family-Friendly: This is a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will love digging into this hearty meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers are just as tasty! You can easily enjoy this dish for days, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks.
- Comforting Aroma: The delightful smell wafting through your home while it cooks will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your *short ribs slow cooker* dish is ready to impress, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a complete, mouthwatering meal! Here are some of my favorite pairings that really complement those tender, flavorful ribs:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic choice! They soak up all that delicious sauce, making every bite heavenly.
- Rice: A fluffy bed of rice, whether white, brown, or even wild rice, is perfect for catching those rich juices.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls is fantastic for mopping up every last drop of sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single bit!
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans to add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the short ribs. It’s a great contrast that your taste buds will love!
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is another delightful option! Its smooth texture pairs beautifully with the hearty ribs and sauce.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a comforting feast that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Enjoy your delightful meal and the happy faces around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers from your *short ribs slow cooker* dish can be a real treat, so let’s make sure you store them properly to keep all that deliciousness intact! Here’s how to do it:
First, once your short ribs have cooled down to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. I usually like to include the sauce in the same container because it helps keep the meat moist. If you have a lot of sauce, consider separating it into another container so it doesn’t get too thick. Make sure to seal everything tightly, and you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep your leftovers longer, go ahead and freeze them! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. You can freeze the short ribs and sauce together, and they should last up to 3 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date so you can keep track.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! For the best results, I recommend thawing frozen short ribs in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, you can use the microwave, but I prefer the stovetop or oven for even heating. If using the stovetop, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep things moist. For the oven, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
There you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of your *short ribs slow cooker* dish even days later. Enjoy every last bite!
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short ribs slow cooker: 5 Secrets to Ultimate Comfort Food
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender and flavorful short ribs cooked in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
Instructions
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the short ribs on all sides.
- Place the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in the slow cooker.
- Add the browned short ribs on top of the vegetables.
- In a bowl, mix beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until tender.
- Serve with the cooking liquid spooned over the top.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, remove the short ribs and reduce the sauce on the stove.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: short ribs, slow cooker, easy dinner, beef recipes
