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Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Crockpot Beef Short Ribs: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Crockpot Beef Short Ribs offer a stress-free, delectable comfort food experience, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 4 ribs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 4 lbs Beef Short Ribs Frozen ribs can be used, but make sure to thaw them before cooking.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Salt Adjust according to your taste preference.
  • 1 tbsp Black Pepper Freshly ground black pepper is ideal for the best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if a milder taste is preferred.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Oil Olive or vegetable oil both work well.
  • 1 medium Onion Sweet or yellow onions are best; shallots can be substituted.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is highly recommended for flavor.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken broth can be a suitable substitute if needed.
  • 1 cup Red Wine Use beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can serve as a gluten-free substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup can be used for a different flavor twist.
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can be a wonderful alternative if available.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Don’t forget to remove it before serving!

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Generously rub salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika all over the beef short ribs, ensuring they're evenly coated. Let the seasoned ribs sit for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned beef short ribs for 3-5 minutes on each side until browned and caramelized. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  4. Pour in beef broth and red wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, dried thyme, and a bay leaf, then stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Transfer the seared short ribs to your crockpot in a single layer. Pour the sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are fully coated.
  6. Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Allow the beef short ribs to cook for approximately 8 hours or until they become fork-tender.
  7. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot. Drizzle generously with the remaining sauce, and serve with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ribCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Properly sear your beef short ribs for the best flavor. Ensure even cooking by placing the ribs in a single layer and let them rest before serving for maximum tenderness.

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