What To Know
- Short ribs are a flavorful and tender cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection on the stovetop.
- Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering short ribs on your stove.
- Place the short ribs back into the thickened sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Yes, you certainly can! Short ribs are a flavorful and tender cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection on the stovetop. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering short ribs on your stove.
Choosing the Right Short Ribs
For optimal results, select boneless short ribs from the chuck or rib section of the cow. These ribs have a good amount of marbling, which ensures tenderness and flavor.
Preparing the Short Ribs
1. Season the ribs: Generously season the ribs with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
2. Sear the ribs: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the ribs on all sides until golden brown.
3. Deglaze the pan: Pour in a cup of red wine or beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
Slow-Cooking the Short Ribs
1. Add liquid: Pour in enough liquid to cover the ribs, such as beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both.
2. Bring to a boil: Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer: Cover and simmer the ribs for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.
Thickening the Sauce
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the pot and set aside. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the liquid until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Finishing the Short Ribs
1. Return the ribs: Place the short ribs back into the thickened sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Perfect Stovetop Short Ribs
- Brown the ribs well: Searing the ribs before slow-cooking adds depth of flavor.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This helps distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot: Allow the ribs to have enough space to brown and simmer.
- Cook low and slow: Patience is key. Simmering the ribs for a longer period ensures maximum tenderness.
- Season to taste: Adjust the seasonings throughout the cooking process to suit your preferences.
Variations
- Red wine short ribs: Use red wine for a rich and flavorful sauce.
- BBQ short ribs: Add barbecue sauce to the cooking liquid for a smoky and tangy twist.
- Asian-style short ribs: Simmer the ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How long do I need to cook short ribs on the stove?
A: Cook for at least 2-3 hours, or until tender.
Q: Can I use bone-in short ribs?
A: Yes, but the cooking time may be longer.
Q: What side dishes go well with short ribs?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I make short ribs ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook the ribs a day or two in advance and reheat before serving.
Q: How do I store leftover short ribs?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
