Introduction
Braised short ribs are the epitome of comfort food—tender, succulent beef slowly cooked with aromatic vegetables and herbs, served over a bed of creamy polenta. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a meal that’s both rustic and elegant. The combination of rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures makes it a satisfying choice for any season. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delectable dish that will fill your home with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients
For the Braised Short Ribs:
- 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs, trimmed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup peeled and diced root vegetables (such as parsnips or turnips)
For the Creamy Polenta:
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (polenta)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Short Ribs:
- Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the short ribs in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust. Remove the ribs from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize.
- Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring for another 2 minutes until fragrant and well combined.
Deglaze and Build the Braising Liquid:
- If using red wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the beef broth, fresh herbs, bay leaves, diced tomatoes, and diced root vegetables to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Braise the Short Ribs:
- Return the seared short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the braising liquid and vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
- Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and falling off the bone.
Make the Creamy Polenta:
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and salt, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta, stirring frequently, for 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, and cream or milk. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, if needed.
Serve:
- Remove the short ribs from the oven and discard the bay leaves and herb sprigs.
- Spoon a generous portion of creamy polenta onto each plate, and top with a short rib and a ladle of the braising vegetables and sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Ahead: Braised short ribs taste even better the next day. You can make them a day in advance and reheat gently over low heat before serving.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with an equal amount of additional beef broth for a deeper flavor.
- Root Vegetable Options: Feel free to use your favorite root vegetables in the braise, such as sweet potatoes, rutabaga, or even a handful of baby potatoes.
Conclusion
This braised short ribs dish served over creamy polenta is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. The rich and savory flavors of the tender beef paired with the smooth, cheesy polenta create a harmony of tastes that’s simply unforgettable. Enjoy this meal with a glass of your favorite red wine and good company for a truly delightful dining experience!