Why You’ll Love these Braised Short Ribs
While I’ve tried countless comfort food recipes over the years, nothing quite compares to these melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs.
The magic happens during those two hours of gentle simmering, breaking down all the tough fibers until the meat practically falls apart with just a fork.
You’ll adore how the curry powder adds an unexpected warmth without overpowering the rich beef flavor.
And that finishing touch of sour cream in the gravy? Simply divine. It creates this velvety, slightly tangy sauce that perfectly complements the crispy exterior you get from that final oven browning.
What Ingredients are in Braised Short Ribs?
These braised short ribs rely on quality ingredients that build layers of flavor through a slow cooking process. What makes this dish special is how the humble short rib transforms into something extraordinary with just a handful of pantry staples. The combination of browning, simmering, and that final oven crisping creates a dish that’s impressive enough for company but comforting enough for a Sunday family dinner.
- 2 pounds boneless short ribs
- 5 cups water
- 2 small onions (one for the stock, one for sautéing)
- 1 small carrot
- 4 celery ribs with leaves
- 8 tablespoons fat (butter or oil), divided
- 4 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream
When shopping for this recipe, the quality of your short ribs matters tremendously. Look for well-marbled pieces with good fat distribution—this is what gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture after braising. The recipe doesn’t specify what type of fat to use, so you have options. Butter will give you a richer flavor, while a neutral oil like canola works well if you want the beef and curry notes to shine through. And don’t skip the sour cream at the end, even if you’re tempted to. That little bit of tanginess cuts through the richness of the dish and elevates the entire gravy to restaurant-quality status.
How to Make these Braised Short Ribs
Making these braised short ribs is a wonderful journey that happens in stages, building flavor at each step.
You’ll begin by cutting your 2 pounds of boneless short ribs into 3-inch pieces, which gives them the perfect size for even cooking and elegant presentation. In a heavy Dutch oven, combine 5 cups of water with 1 small sliced onion, 1 small sliced carrot, and 4 celery ribs with their leaves. This aromatic bath is where the magic starts—bring it to a boil before adding your short ribs, then reduce to a simmer and cover. The meat needs about 2 hours of gentle cooking to become nearly tender, transforming from tough to succulent as the collagen slowly breaks down. Using a premium Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution throughout the cooking process and superior heat retention during the long braising time.
Once the meat has had its lengthy simmer, you’ll remove it and set it aside while straining the stock—liquid gold that will form the base of your gravy. In that same Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of fat and whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to create a roux, the thickening agent for your sauce. Gradually add 3 cups of the reserved stock while whisking continuously (adding a bit of water if needed to reach the full amount). Season this developing gravy with salt, pepper, and that surprising 1/4 teaspoon of curry powder, which adds depth without overtaking the beef flavor.
Meanwhile, in a separate frypan, heat another 4 tablespoons of fat and sauté a small sliced onion until it’s lightly browned. This is where your short ribs return to the action—add them to the frypan to brown, creating that irresistible crust we all crave.
The final stage elevates these short ribs from good to magnificent. Pour half the prepared gravy over the browned meat in the frypan, then place it uncovered in a moderate 325°F oven for about 45 minutes. During this time, the meat develops a beautiful brown, crisp exterior while remaining fork-tender inside. Remember to baste occasionally with the drippings, ensuring maximum flavor.
Just before serving, reheat the remaining gravy, season to taste, and stir in 2-3 tablespoons of sour cream for a silky, tangy finish that balances the richness. Arrange the glossy, caramelized short ribs on a hot platter, pour that luscious gravy around (not over) them to maintain their crisp exterior, and serve immediately. The contrast of textures—crisp exterior, tender meat, and velvety sauce—makes this dish absolutely unforgettable.
Braised Short Ribs Substitutions and Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the classic preparation, let’s explore the wonderful world of adaptations that can make this recipe truly your own.
Don’t have curry powder? A pinch of cumin or garam masala works brilliantly.
For a wine-based variation, replace half the stock with a robust red wine. Bone-in ribs offer more flavor but require longer cooking, while beef chuck makes a budget-friendly substitute.
Feel like going international? Add ginger, star anise, and soy sauce for Asian flair, or tomatoes and herbs for an Italian twist.
And that sour cream? Greek yogurt or coconut milk can step in, depending on your flavor journey.
What to Serve with Braised Short Ribs
While the rich, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs steal the spotlight, their perfect companions deserve just as much consideration.
I’m partial to creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up that luscious gravy like nothing else. A side of roasted root vegetables—think carrots, parsnips, and turnips—adds earthy sweetness that balances the meat’s richness.
Not a potato fan? Buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta work beautifully too.
For something green, consider sautéed spinach with garlic or a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the fatty meat, creating that perfect bite.
Hungry yet?
Final Thoughts
Beyond those perfect sides, the real magic of braised short ribs lies in their ability to bring people together.
There’s something about tender meat falling off the bone that makes conversation flow and smiles appear around the table.
I’m convinced that slow-cooked dishes like these short ribs carry a special kind of love in every bite.
Can you think of a better way to show someone you care than investing hours in a dish that practically melts in their mouth?
Make this recipe your own—add more curry for warmth or extra sour cream for richness.
The beauty is in the simplicity.
