Name: Hearty Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs Beef Short Ribs; Salt; Pepper; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 Onion (Chopped); 3 Carrots (Chopped); 4 cloves Garlic (Smashed); 3 cups Spiced Apple Cider; 1 cup Beef Stock; 2 Cinnamon Sticks; 2 Star Anise Pods; 4 Whole Cloves; 4 Sweet Potatoes (Peeled and cubed); 4 tbsp Butter; 2 tsp Fresh Rosemary (Minced); ½ cup Heavy Cream; Salt (To taste)

Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs are a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for the fall season. Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of tender short ribs slowly braising in a delightful mixture of apple cider and spices filling your home. This dish not only warms the heart but also tantalizes the taste buds, offering a rich, satisfying meal that brings family and friends together. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of flavors that come with this fantastic recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Braised Short

This dish is a true celebration of fall’s flavors, and here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s incredibly tender, with short ribs melting in your mouth.
The apple cider adds a unique sweetness that balances beautifully with savory spices.
It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
The dish is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
It’s perfect for gatherings, serving up to four people.
This recipe provides a hearty meal that warms you up inside.

With its braised short ribs with apple cider and warm spices, this dish embodies the essence of American comfort food, making it a must-try.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Braised Short

Gather these items:

3 lbs Beef Short Ribs (Choose bone-in for a richer flavor.)
Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)
2 tbsp Olive Oil (Used for searing.)
1 Onion (Chopped)
3 Carrots (Chopped)
4 cloves Garlic (Smashed)
3 cups Spiced Apple Cider (The star of the dish.)
1 cup Beef Stock (Adds richness.)
2 Cinnamon Sticks (Infuses warmth.)
2 Star Anise Pods (Adds sweet licorice flavor.)
4 Whole Cloves (Provides spicy complexity.)
4 Sweet Potatoes (Peeled and cubed)
4 tbsp Butter (Adds richness.)
2 tsp Fresh Rosemary (Minced)
½ cup Heavy Cream (Ensures a velvety consistency.)
Salt (To taste)

How to Make Apple Cider Braised Short Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the beef short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the ribs for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden-brown. Transfer the ribs to a plate.
Step 2: In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and smashed garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 6-8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in spiced apple cider, scraping up browned bits from the pot. Add beef stock, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and whole cloves. Return the seared ribs to the pot, ensuring they are covered with the liquid.
Step 4: Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are fork-tender.
Step 5: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Step 6: Add butter and heavy cream to the drained sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, adding minced rosemary and salt to taste.
Step 7: Serve rosemary mashed sweet potatoes on each plate, topped with braised short ribs and drizzled with the apple cider sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cider Braised Short

Keep these in mind:

For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to enhance the tanginess.
Allow the short ribs to rest for a few minutes after cooking for maximum juiciness.
Serve with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. This recipe utilizes the braising method, ensuring rich flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Braised Short

Here are some ideas:

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or rosemary mashed sweet potatoes for a delightful contrast.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
Drizzle the apple cider sauce over the ribs for extra flavor and presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Braised Short

To store leftovers, place the short ribs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is also perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Braised Short

What is apple cider braised short ribs?

Apple cider braised short ribs are a comforting dish made by slow-cooking tender beef short ribs in a mixture of apple cider and spices, resulting in a fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

Can I make apple cider braised short ribs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just reheat gently to maintain the tenderness of the ribs when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with apple cider braised short ribs?

To avoid overcooking, monitor the braising time closely. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190°F for optimal tenderness.

Variations of Apple Cider Braised Short You Can Try

Consider these variations:

For a twist, add apple cider and garlic braised beef for a different flavor profile.
Try adding herbs like thyme or sage for a unique flavor.
Experiment with different types of apple cider to find your favorite pairing.

Hearty Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Recipe - Apple Cider Braised Short - main visual representation

Enjoy this delicious and hearty meal with your loved ones, celebrating the flavors of fall with each satisfying bite!

For more delicious recipes, check out our guide on braising techniques and learn how to make perfect mashed potatoes to accompany your meal. You can also explore tips for hosting gatherings to impress your guests!

For more information on the health benefits of apple cider, visit Healthline.