Description
Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy. This comforting and deeply flavorful meal is perfect for cozy dinners, enhanced by aromatics and a luscious gravy made from beef broth, tomato paste, and herbs.
Ingredients
Beef Ribs and Vegetables
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the ribs: Generously season the beef short ribs with salt and black pepper on all sides to build the foundation of flavor.
- Brown the ribs (optional): For extra depth of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ribs on each side until well-seared, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional but recommended.
- Arrange in crockpot: Place the ribs in the crockpot along with sliced onions, chopped carrots, and minced garlic, distributing evenly around the meat.
- Prepare cooking liquid: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme until fully incorporated.
- Combine and cook: Pour the broth mixture over the ribs and vegetables. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove ribs and keep warm: Carefully take out the ribs and set aside, keeping them warm for serving.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the gravy, stirring constantly until you achieve a rich, smooth consistency.
- Serve: Plate the ribs and generously spoon the thickened gravy and cooked vegetables over them. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- Serve the beef short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the rich gravy.
- For a lighter gravy, skim off excess fat from the cooking liquid before thickening.
- If gluten-free, omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch.
- The optional browning step adds richness but can be skipped for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American