Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce -

Braising is a remarkable technique that transforms meat into a tender, flavorful dish, and our Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce exemplifies this culinary magic. In this recipe, we combine succulent beef short ribs with a luscious cream sauce infused with fresh herbs, creating an experience you won’t forget. The combination of comfort and elegance makes this dish perfect for both a cozy family dinner and a special occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll fall head over heels for this Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce for several reasons:

Decadent Flavor: The marbling of beef short ribs melts down during cooking, resulting in incredibly rich, hearty flavors.
Creamy Herb Sauce: The velvety cream sauce is not only delicious but also a perfect accompaniment to the tender meat.
Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread for sopping up that sauce.
Impress Your Guests: With its restaurant-quality presentation, you’ll leave your friends and family in awe.

Pro Tips for Making Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce

To ensure your short ribs turn out perfectly tender and infused with flavor, consider these pro tips:

Choose well-marbled short ribs for the most flavor.
Don’t rush the browning process—it develops a rich texture and adds depth to the sauce.
For a deeper flavor, let the dish rest for an hour before serving; this allows the flavors to meld.
Feel free to experiment with herbs; thyme, rosemary, and parsley work beautifully in this dish.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients:

Beef Short Ribs: 4 pounds
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Mixed Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons (e.g., thyme, rosemary, parsley)
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Oil: for browning the ribs

Directions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gentle heat is perfect for even cooking of the short ribs.

Step 2: Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures that the seasoning penetrates the meat, enhancing its natural flavor.

Step 3: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the short ribs, browning them on all sides. This step takes about 4-5 minutes per side, and it’s essential for developing a deep flavor profile.

Step 4: Once browned, remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside. Leave the fond (browned bits) in the pot; this is where a lot of flavor lies.

Step 5: With the heat still on medium, add the heavy cream to the pot. Scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to release the fond, incorporating those flavors into the sauce.

Step 6: After about 2-3 minutes, return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the cream. Add the fresh herbs to the mixture.

Step 7: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

Step 8: Once the ribs are tender, remove the pot from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so feel free to adjust the consistency by simmering on the stovetop if necessary.

Step 9: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 10: Serve the braised short ribs hot, drizzled with the creamy herb sauce, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress!

5 FAQ Pairs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Braised short ribs can be made a day in advance. Simply reheat them gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with braised short ribs?

They are delicious served with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the recipe?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, but this may alter the texture and flavor slightly.

What type of wine pairs well with this dish?

A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the richness of the short ribs beautifully.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of braising in the oven?

Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender for a convenient alternative.

Conclusion

Braising might be a simple cooking technique, but the end result of our Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce is nothing short of spectacular. This recipe proves that with a few quality ingredients and some patience, you can create a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious home-cooked food.