This super tender slow cooker beef short ribs recipe is all about juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat. The rich flavors come from simple spices and a long, slow cook.
What’s better than coming home to a warm, tasty meal? I love serving these ribs over mashed potatoes. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Look for well-marbled short ribs. The fat adds flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find short ribs, try using chuck roast as a substitute, but cooking time may vary.
Red Wine: This ingredient adds depth to the flavor but can be left out if you prefer. Use more beef broth instead or even grape juice for sweetness without the alcohol.
Soy Sauce: A great umami booster! For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. This makes a difference in flavor, so choose what works best for you.
Brown Sugar: Feel free to swap it with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. A bit of sweetness balances the savory flavors beautifully.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Brown Crust on Short Ribs?
Getting that nice brown crust is essential for flavor development. Here’s how you do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the short ribs. This prevents them from steaming.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Browning takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use tongs to turn the ribs, ensuring even cooking.
Taking this step seriously enhances the final dish by adding layers of flavor you won’t want to miss!
Super Tender Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep, with a cooking time of 8-9 hours in the slow cooker. So, set your day for a cozy meal, and let the slow cooker do the magic while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor right into the meat!
2. Brown the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs, browning them on all sides until they develop a nice, caramelized crust—about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is crucial for flavor! After browning, transfer the ribs to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes. This will add more depth to your dish.
4. Mix the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Then, pour in the beef broth, red wine, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir, ensuring to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor.
5. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the sauce mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker. Add in the dried thyme and bay leaves. These will give your dish a wonderful aroma as it cooks.
6. Slow Cook:
Cover and let your slow cooker work its magic on low for 8-9 hours. The result will be meat that is extremely tender and virtually falling off the bone.
7. Serve the Ribs:
Once done, carefully remove the bay leaves and transfer the ribs to a serving platter. If you want a thicker sauce, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer this over medium heat until it reduces to your desired thickness.
8. Final Touches:
Spoon the rich sauce over the ribs and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or your favorite side, and enjoy every tender bite!
Enjoy your super tender slow cooker beef short ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Short Ribs?
Yes, you can use frozen short ribs! Just ensure they are fully thawed before browning for best results. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method to speed it up.
How Can I Adjust the Cooking Time?
If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for about 4-5 hours instead of low for 8-9 hours. However, slower cooking will yield more tender ribs, so if you can plan ahead, I recommend going low and slow!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let the ribs cool completely before freezing!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth. You’ll still get a rich and flavorful sauce without alcohol.
