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Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 7.5-8.5 hours

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lbs beef short ribs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with additional beef broth)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Beef:
    • Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
    • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the ribs to the slow cooker.
  • Cook the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Prepare the Sauce:
    • Pour the red wine (if using) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
    • Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
  • Combine and Cook:
    • Pour the sauce and vegetables over the short ribs in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
  • Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
    • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened.
  • Serve:
    • Remove the short ribs from the slow cooker and serve with the sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, polenta, or a side of crusty bread.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 36g