Name: French Onion Short Ribs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons salted butter; 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced (*thinly sliced*); 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc); 6-8 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce ((low sodium is best)); black pepper; 2 shallots, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage; chili flakes; 2 cups baby carrots; 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs; 2 bay leaves; 1 star anise ((optional)); 6 slices french bread; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Introduction to French Onion Short Ribs

The comfort of homemade food

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that fills your home with warm, inviting aromas. French Onion Short Ribs take you on a comforting culinary journey, merging the rich flavors of savory beef ribs and sweet, caramelized onions into a truly delightful experience. This recipe, courtesy of Tieghan Gerard, captures the essence of homemade goodness in every bite.

Imagine the feeling of a chilly evening soothed by the warmth of a bubbling pot simmering away. As the short ribs cook, they become tender and flavorful, melting in your mouth. Pairing these robust flavors with crusty bread topped with delightful Gruyère cheese adds an indulgent touch that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Using low sodium chicken broth and fresh herbs not only elevates the dish but also makes it a heartwarming meal that feels a little bit special. Plus, it’s fantastic for meal prep, giving you nourishing leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. If you love embracing the comfort of homemade food, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

For a comprehensive look at the ingredient list and step-by-step guidance, check out the full recipe for French Onion Short Ribs above.

Ingredients for French Onion Short Ribs

Creating luscious French Onion Short Ribs starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and richness, transforming simple short ribs into a culinary masterpiece.

Essential Ingredients

6 tablespoons salted butter: This will form the base for sautéing your onions and shallots, adding a depth of flavor.
4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced: Onions are the star of this dish, imparting sweetness as they caramelize.
½ cup dry white wine substitute: Use chicken broth or a splash of vinegar to enhance your ribs without the alcohol.
Fresh herbs: You'll need 2 tablespoons each of fresh thyme leaves and chopped fresh sage for that aromatic touch.
4 cloves garlic, chopped: Garlic adds that unmistakable savory flavor.
6-8 cups low sodium chicken broth: Opt for low sodium to control the saltiness of your dish.
4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs: Choose meaty ribs for the best results; they'll become wonderfully tender during cooking.

Gather these ingredients, and you're well on your way to crafting a comforting meal that will impress friends and family alike! For tips on perfecting your broth, check out Cook's Illustrated.

Step-by-step Preparation of French Onion Short Ribs

Preparing French Onion Short Ribs is a rewarding culinary adventure, perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the preparation process in easy-to-follow steps.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we get cooking, let’s ensure you have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

6 tablespoons of salted butter
4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth to replace wine for flavor
Black pepper
2 shallots, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
Chili flakes for a kick
6-8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup tamari or soy sauce
4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
2 bay leaves
Optional: 1 star anise for added depth
2 cups baby carrots
6 slices of French bread
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Having everything prepped not only helps the cooking flow smoothly but also keeps you organized. Now, let’s sauté those onions!

Sauté the Onions and Aromatics

In a large, oven-safe Dutch Oven over high heat, melt together the butter and your thinly sliced onions. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’ve softened up. Now, add your chopped garlic, shallots, thyme, and sage, and sprinkle in some black pepper along with chili flakes. Keep stirring for another 5-8 minutes until the onions become lightly golden. This step builds a deep, rich flavor that’s the heart of your French Onion Short Ribs.

Brown the Short Ribs

While the onions are doing their thing, it's time to focus on those beef short ribs. Once the onions are ready, add the short ribs to the pot. Allow them to brown for a few minutes on each side. This step locks in flavor and gives your meat that gorgeous, caramelized exterior.

Assemble Everything in the Dutch Oven or Crockpot

Pour in your chicken broth and tamari. Add the bay leaves and star anise if you're using it. This also helps to deepen the flavor profile of your dish. Stir everything gently, making sure the short ribs are submerged in the broth.

Cooking Time and Methods

Now, it’s time to let the magic happen! You can cook your French Onion Short Ribs in two different ways:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Cover the Dutch oven and place it in the oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender.
Crockpot Method: Transfer everything to your crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 5-6 hours.

Remember, the longer you cook, the more tender and flavorful the short ribs will be. In the last hour, add your baby carrots for a sweet touch.

Once done cooking, discard any bones and excess fat, shred the meat lightly, and prepare your cheesy toast to serve!

With these steps, you’re well on your way to creating an amazing dish that marries the comforting flavors of French onion soup with the rich, succulent taste of short ribs. Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors!

Variations on French Onion Short Ribs

Using Different Herbs

Elevate your French Onion Short Ribs by experimenting with herbs! Instead of thyme and sage, try adding rosemary or tarragon for a different flair. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also brighten up the rich, savory taste. You might even discover a combination that’s uniquely yours!

Short Ribs in a Different Cooking Method

Want to switch things up? Consider using a pressure cooker! It can yield tender, flavorful short ribs in a fraction of the time. Alternatively, grilling the short ribs creates a smoky depth that complements the French onion flavors beautifully. Don’t forget to check out cooking techniques on Serious Eats for even more inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for French Onion Short Ribs

Perfecting the Flavor

When making French Onion Short Ribs, the secret is in the caramelization of the onions. Take your time to let them cook down slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. Additionally, using a low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.

Adjusting for Texture

If your ribs aren’t tender enough after the suggested cooking time, simply give them more time to cook. The meat should be falling off the bone and meltingly tender.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this dish with a simple side salad or crusty French bread to soak up that delightful broth.

For more tips on beef cooking techniques, check out this guide on how to braise meat.

Serving Suggestions for French Onion Short Ribs

When you're ready to savor your French Onion Short Ribs, the right serving style can elevate your meal even further. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Pair with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of the short ribs complements velvety mashed potatoes perfectly. You can whip them up quickly using butter and cream for that extra indulgence.
Serve with Fresh Vegetables: Consider a side of roasted or sautéed green beans or Brussels sprouts to add a vibrant touch and balance the dish's richness.
Craft a Hearty Sandwich: Load shredded short ribs onto crusty bread, perhaps topped with melty Gruyère cheese, and enjoy a comforting sandwich.
Accompany with a Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette can add brightness to your meal.

By exploring these serving suggestions, you can create a meal that's not just delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Time Breakdown for French Onion Short Ribs

Preparation Time

The prep time for these delightful French Onion Short Ribs is just 30 minutes. You'll spend this time slicing onions, preparing the herbs, and gathering your ingredients, which sets you up for a seamless cooking experience.

Cooking Time

Cooking takes about 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the short ribs to become tender and succulent. Whether you choose the oven or crockpot method, that time is your secret ingredient for achieving rich, savory goodness.

Total Time

In total, you'll need around 3 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes both preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for a cozy weekend dinner. Enjoy the process, and the delicious meal that follows!

For more tips on perfecting this dish, check out Food Network’s slow-cooking guide.

Nutritional Facts for French Onion Short Ribs

When indulging in French Onion Short Ribs, it's not just about the rich flavor—but also understanding the nutrition that comes with it. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories

Each serving of French Onion Short Ribs packs a hearty 998 calories, making it a fulfilling meal perfect for dinner gatherings.

Protein

Enjoy the benefit of 60 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the tender, succulent beef short ribs. This makes for an excellent post-workout meal to help repair and build muscle.

Sodium

On the flip side, you’ll find about 1,500 mg of sodium per serving. To manage your intake, consider opting for low-sodium broth and tamari to help bring that number down while still enjoying all the delectable flavors.

Now that you've got the nutritional facts, you can feel good about savoring every bite of this delicious dish! For more tips on balancing flavors and nutrition, check out Healthline for expert advice. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQs about French Onion Short Ribs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! French Onion Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the oven when you're ready to serve. This method can actually elevate the dish’s taste!

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled short ribs and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and they should keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly.

What should I pair with French Onion Short Ribs?

These indulgent short ribs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables. If you want to keep it cozy, serve with crusty bread for dipping. For added flair, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on French Onion Short Ribs

In summary, French Onion Short Ribs is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with a rich onion soup experience, perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests. With fragrant herbs and warm, cheesy toast, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy every savory bite! For more delicious tips, check out The Kitchn.