As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, my thoughts drift to cozy gatherings and hearty meals. This Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs recipe perfectly captures that warm, inviting essence of autumn. Not only is this dish a remarkable pantry-staple twist on traditional braising, but it’s also an absolute showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as the savory short ribs slow-cook in apple cider, mingling with fresh herbs and vegetables. The best part? You'll have a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any occasion paired with velvety rosemary mashed sweet potatoes. Whether it's a Sunday family dinner or a cozy evening in, this recipe is your ticket to comfort food heaven. Ready to dive into a dish that embraces the season’s charm?
Why are Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs irresistible?
Unforgettable Flavors: The sweetness of apple cider perfectly complements the rich, savory beef, creating a tantalizing balance that will have your taste buds dancing.
Comforting Experience: These braised short ribs are the epitome of comfort food, making them perfect for chilly nights. Each bite melts in your mouth, especially when paired with those creamy rosemary mashed sweet potatoes.
Simple Steps: You don't need to be a culinary expert; just a few easy steps can reward you with a gourmet dinner that's sure to impress family and friends.
Versatility: This dish works wonderfully for various occasions, whether a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
For more delicious apple recipes, check out my Air Fryer Apple Crisp or whip up some delightful Apple Oreo Balls for dessert!
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Ingredients
• A delightful combination of flavors awaits!
For the Ribs
- 4 pounds beef short ribs, bone-in – Opting for bone-in ensures maximum flavor and tenderness during cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Season generously for a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve that perfect sear on the short ribs.
For the Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory base to the braising liquid.
- 2 carrots, diced – These bring natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds crunch and flavor to the aromatic mix.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the savory notes significantly.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds richness and a hint of acidity to balance flavors.
For Braising
- 2 cups apple cider – The key ingredient for the sweet and tangy profile of this dish!
- 1 cup beef broth – Provides additional depth and richness to the braising liquid.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor and complements the sweetness.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary – Infuses a fragrant herbiness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme – Offers earthy notes that enhance the dish's flavor complexity.
- 1 bay leaf – A traditional addition that rounds out the flavor profile.
For the Rosemary Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed – The natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the mash.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Ensures a smooth, velvety texture for your potatoes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped – Lends an aromatic kick to your side dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This gradual increase in temperature will create the ideal environment for the Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs to cook low and slow, ensuring they become wonderfully tender and packed with flavor.
Step 2: Season the Ribs
Generously season the beef short ribs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This step is crucial as it adds key flavor to the ribs, preparing them for a savory and mouthwatering experience once they are braised.
Step 3: Sear the Short Ribs
In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the short ribs in batches, searing them until they are richly browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove the seared ribs and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally. Next, add the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring for another minute until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your braising liquid.
Step 5: Add the Braising Liquid
Pour in 2 cups of apple cider, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing step adds depth to the dish. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add 1 cup of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, along with the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf, infusing the liquid with aromatic flavors.
Step 6: Return the Ribs to the Pot
Carefully return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the braising liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot with its lid. Transition the pot into your preheated oven to bake, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Braise the Ribs
Braise the Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs in the oven for about 3 hours, or until they are fork-tender and practically falling off the bone. This slow cooking process allows the beef to soak up the cider and herbs, resulting in a rich and savory dish.
Step 8: Prepare the Mashed Sweet Potatoes
While the ribs are braising, prepare the rosemary mashed sweet potatoes. In a saucepan, boil 2 pounds of peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, keeping them warm.
Step 9: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
To the warm sweet potatoes, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped rosemary. Mash the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, creating a delightful side dish to complement the ribs.
Step 10: Strain the Braising Liquid
Once the ribs are finished braising, remove them from the oven and take them out of the pot. Strain the braising liquid into a saucepan, discarding any solids. Simmer this flavorful liquid over medium heat for about 10 minutes until it thickens, enriching the overall taste of your dish.
Step 11: Serve the Dish
To plate your masterpiece, place a generous scoop of rosemary mashed sweet potatoes on each plate. Top it with the beautifully braised short ribs, and finish by drizzling the thickened braising liquid over everything. This final touch enhances the presentation and flavor of your Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you a lot of time! You can season the short ribs and prepare the braising liquid up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. The rosemary mashed sweet potatoes can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To minimize browning, place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mashed potatoes. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the potatoes on the stove with a splash of cream, braise the ribs in the oven until heated through, and enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort!
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Here are some delightful twists to consider.
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Vegetarian: Swap the beef short ribs with hearty mushrooms like portobello or king oyster for a delicious and savory alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the braising liquid to turn up the heat and add a piquant twist! Each bite will surprise your palate.
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Sweet and Savory: Instead of apple cider, use pear cider for a subtly sweet flavor that complements the beef beautifully. This twist will impress your family and friends!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like sage or oregano instead of rosemary and thyme. Their unique flavors will bring a fresh aroma to the dish.
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Cider Reduction: For an intensified flavor, reduce the apple cider on the stovetop before adding it to the braising liquid. This creates a deeper, sweeter essence.
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Alternative Side: Serve these ribs alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes or fluffy polenta for a heartier accompaniment that soaks up the rich sauce.
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Slow Cooker Option: Adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Set it to low and cook for 8 hours for succulent ribs with minimal effort.
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Fruity Flair: Toss in diced apples or pears to the pot before braising for a fruity sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
For more delicious apple recipes, make sure you check out my delightful Baked Apple Chips or try my exciting Apple Bubble Casserole for a sweet finish!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
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Choose Quality Ribs: Opt for well-marbled, bone-in short ribs to ensure tenderness and rich flavor during cooking.
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Don’t Rush the Sear: Take the time to brown the ribs properly; this caramelization adds amazing depth to the Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs.
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Low and Slow: Resist the urge to increase the oven temperature. Slowly braising the short ribs at 325°F allows the meat to become fork-tender and infused with flavor.
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Seasoning Matters: Don't skimp on salt and pepper during each stage. Proper seasoning enhances the overall taste of the dish beautifully.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of apple cider or add a splash of more acidic vinegar to balance it out.
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Perfecting the Mash: Ensure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and warm when mashing to achieve a creamy texture in your rosemary mashed sweet potatoes.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Dreaming of the perfect dinner experience to complement your heavenly short ribs?
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a smooth, comforting base that pairs seamlessly with the meaty goodness and rich sauce of the ribs.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the sweetness of the apple cider, adding depth to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the delicious braising sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
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Green Bean Almondine: The crisp-tender green beans and crunchy almonds add a refreshing contrast, lightening the overall plate while keeping things colorful.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings a refreshing crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the ribs and mashed potatoes.
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Mulled Wine: To elevate the meal, serve a glass of mulled wine infused with spices. Its warmth and flavors harmonize beautifully with the comforting nature of the dish.
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Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream complements the apple cider notes and rounds off a delightful dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the braising liquid covers the ribs to keep them moist.
Freezer: If you're freezing the short ribs, place them in a freezer-safe container with enough braising liquid to submerge them. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen ribs in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Quality Check: Always check for off odors or discoloration when consuming stored or frozen apple cider braised short ribs to ensure they’re still delicious!
Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for apple cider?
Absolutely! When selecting apples for cider, I recommend going for a mix of sweet and tart varieties. Look for apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith. They create a balanced flavor profile that enhances the braised short ribs beautifully.
How should I store any leftover Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs?
To store leftover ribs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure the braising liquid completely covers the ribs; this will help keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I freeze Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs?
Certainly! To freeze, transfer the ribs along with enough braising liquid to cover them into a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date so you know when they were made!
What’s the best way to reheat thawed Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs?
To reheat, first, thaw the frozen ribs in the refrigerator overnight. You can gently reheat them by placing them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even heating.
What should I do if the short ribs are tough after braising?
If your Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs are still tough after braising, don’t worry! It might just need more time in the oven. Check if they have reached fork-tenderness; if not, cover the pot tightly and return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes or so. The low and slow method is key to breaking down that connective tissue for maximum tenderness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you're accommodating dietary restrictions, you can substitute beef short ribs with a plant-based alternative, but keep in mind the flavor will differ. Also, for those with dairy allergies, replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy option, like coconut cream, for the rosemary mashed sweet potatoes. Always adjust the ingredients according to your needs while keeping the essence of the dish!
Savory Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs for Cozy Nights
Equipment
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 4 pounds beef short ribs, bone-in Opting for bone-in ensures maximum flavor and tenderness during cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper Season generously for a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Helps achieve that perfect sear on the short ribs.
For the Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced Adds a sweet and savory base to the braising liquid.
- 2 medium carrots, diced These bring natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Adds crunch and flavor to the aromatic mix.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Garlic enhances the savory notes significantly.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Adds richness and a hint of acidity to balance flavors.
For Braising
- 2 cups apple cider The key ingredient for the sweet and tangy profile of this dish!
- 1 cup beef broth Provides additional depth and richness to the braising liquid.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Brightens the overall flavor and complements the sweetness.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary Infuses a fragrant herbiness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme Offers earthy notes that enhance the dish's flavor complexity.
- 1 leaf bay leaf A traditional addition that rounds out the flavor profile.
For the Rosemary Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed The natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory dishes.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds creaminess and richness to the mash.
- ½ cup heavy cream Ensures a smooth, velvety texture for your potatoes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped Lends an aromatic kick to your side dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Generously season the beef short ribs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
- In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the short ribs until browned.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened. Then, add minced garlic and tomato paste.
- Pour in 2 cups of apple cider and add the remaining braising ingredients, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the seared ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged, and cover with a lid.
- Braise in the oven for about 3 hours or until fork-tender.
- While the ribs are braising, boil 2 pounds of sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and keep warm.
- Mash the sweet potatoes with butter, cream, rosemary, and season to taste.
- Once the ribs are done braising, strain the liquid and simmer until thickened.
- Serve the mashed sweet potatoes topped with the braised short ribs and drizzle with the braising liquid.
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