The aroma of slow-cooked beef wafting through your home is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender short ribs simmering away with tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that feels like a cozy blanket for your taste buds.
Now, picture yourself gathering friends or family around the table as this hearty short rib ragu takes center stage. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, perfect for those moments when you want to impress without spending the entire day in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious short rib ragu is incredibly easy to prepare and yields an explosion of flavors
- The vibrant colors and rich textures make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides or pasta options
Sharing this dish at a dinner party left my guests swooning over its rich flavor—one even declared it “the best thing I’ve ever eaten.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Short Ribs: Opt for well-marbled cuts; they melt beautifully during cooking and infuse deep flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the overall richness.
- Onion: Choose sweet onions for a milder flavor that complements the meat perfectly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on it unless you have vampire concerns!
- Canned Tomatoes: Go for whole peeled tomatoes; they break down beautifully during simmering.
- Beef Broth: Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works well if time is tight.
- Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Bay Leaves): Fresh herbs elevate the dish; make sure they’re fragrant!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings are vital—don’t forget to taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely so they can mingle joyfully when sautéed!
Sear the Short Ribs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot until browned on all sides.
Next up, add those diced onions and minced garlic to your pot. Stir them around until they turn translucent and release their delightful aroma—about 5 minutes should do!
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in those gorgeous canned tomatoes along with their juices. Crush them gently with a wooden spoon while adding beef broth until everything is swimming happily together.
Add Herbs and Simmer Away!: Toss in fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves before covering your pot. Let it simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours until the meat is fork-tender—a great chance to relax!
Once done, remove bones from the pot (if using bone-in ribs) before shredding any remaining meat into bite-sized pieces. Stir everything together so each morsel gets coated in that luscious sauce.
Finally, serve your stunning short rib ragu over creamy polenta or al dente pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy—because who doesn’t love a little extra green?
This recipe showcases how comfort food can be both simple yet elegant—a true delight for any occasion! Enjoy every last bite while basking in compliments from your loved ones!
You Must Know
- Short rib ragu is an indulgent dish that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture
- It’s perfect for chilly evenings, serving up warmth and heartiness that will make your dinner table feel like a cozy Italian trattoria
- Don’t forget the garlic bread for dipping!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the short ribs to lock in their juices, then build flavor with aromatics while they braise. This ensures a delicious depth of flavor and tender meat every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or add veggies like carrots or mushrooms. A sprinkle of fresh basil at the end brightens the dish wonderfully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover short rib ragu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slowly on the stove over medium heat to preserve its rich flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use quality short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness; marbling is key
- Allow the ragu to rest after cooking; this enhances the taste as flavors meld beautifully
- Pair with creamy polenta or pasta for a delightful meal experience
My friend once said my short rib ragu was so good it made him reconsider his life choices—specifically, his aversion to slow-cooked meals!
FAQ
What type of short ribs should I use for ragu?
Use bone-in short ribs; they provide richer flavor and moisture during cooking.
How long does it take to cook short rib ragu?
Plan for about three hours of cooking time to achieve tender, flavorful meat.
Can I freeze leftover short rib ragu?
Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months without losing quality.
Short Rib Ragu
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this short rib ragu, a slow-cooked masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs short ribs
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large sweet onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Pour in canned tomatoes (crushed) with their juices and add beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Toss in thyme and bay leaves, cover the pot, and let simmer on low for 2-3 hours until meat is fork-tender.
- Remove any bones and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
- Serve over creamy polenta or pasta, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing carrots or mushrooms along with onions.
- A sprinkle of fresh basil before serving enhances freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow-Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg