Slow Cooker Short Ribs Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Short Ribs Recipe is perfect for you. With minimal prep work and a hands-off cooking approach, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, delivering fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs infused with rich, savory flavors. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a weekend meal, where you want to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to wow your family and friends with a delicious, effortless dinner? Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these mouthwatering slow cooker short ribs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs (about 8 ribs)
• 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon onion powder
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil, more as needed
• 2 sweet onions, peeled and cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 large carrots, cut into 1-inch thick rounds
• Optional: Herbs for garnish (parsley, rosemary, thyme)

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet
• Slow cooker
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Small mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Paper towels

Preparing Your Short Ribs

Choosing high-quality beef short ribs is key to a delicious dish. Look for well-marbled ribs with even layers of fat and meat. Bone-in ribs are ideal as the bones add depth of flavor during the slow cooking process. Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels to help them sear properly and develop a rich crust.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Season the Short Ribs

In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub this seasoning mix all over the short ribs, making sure they are well-coated on all sides. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps create a nice crust when searing.

2. Sear the Ribs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. When the oil is hot, sear the short ribs on all sides until they are browned and a crust forms, about 5 minutes per side. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and adding a depth of flavor to the ribs. Work in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, and add more oil if needed.

3. Transfer to Slow Cooker

Once all the ribs are seared, transfer them to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.

Creating the Flavor Base

4. Saute the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. This step helps release the natural sweetness of the onions and the savory aroma of the garlic, creating a flavorful base for the short ribs.

5. Deglaze the Pan

Pour the balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce into the skillet and deglaze by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits add an incredible flavor to the sauce.

6. Combine the Ingredients

Add the beef broth, tomato paste, chopped thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and pour the mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring the ribs are mostly submerged.

Slow Cooking to Perfection

7. Cook the Ribs

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in succulent, fall-apart short ribs.

Adding the Vegetables

8. Add the Carrots

About 1-2 hours before the end of the cooking time, add the carrots to the slow cooker. This ensures the carrots are tender but not mushy. Adjust the timing based on how soft you prefer the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Once the ribs are done, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme. Serve the ribs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Add steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, let the short ribs cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat gently in a skillet on the stovetop. You can also freeze the ribs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips and Variations

• Flavor Boost: For added depth, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a tablespoon of honey to the sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: Substitute or add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, or omit it altogether for a milder dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sear: Don’t skip the searing step! This helps to build flavor and texture.
• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Arrange the ribs in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
• Adding Carrots Too Early: To avoid mushy carrots, add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking.

FAQs

• Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
  Yes, you can bake the short ribs in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
• Can I use boneless short ribs?
  Absolutely, but bone-in ribs tend to be more flavorful. Adjust cooking time as needed.
• How can I thicken the sauce?
  Remove the ribs once cooked, then simmer the sauce on the stovetop until it reaches your desired consistency.

conclusion

This Slow Cooker Short Ribs Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy, comforting, and delicious meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy ribs with minimal effort. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more tasty dishes!

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