If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and elegant, these Lemon Herb Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes will hit the spot. With tender, fall-off-the-bone beef and a zesty, aromatic sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
Beef short ribs: These are the star of the dish, providing rich, beefy flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked properly. Olive oil: Used for browning the ribs, adding a subtle depth to the flavor. Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery: These aromatics form the base of the braising liquid, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Beef stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce. White wine: Provides acidity and complexity, balancing the richness of the beef. Lemon juice and zest: Offer a fresh, bright contrast to the deep flavors. Rosemary and thyme: Infuse the dish with earthy, aromatic notes. Bay leaves: Add a subtle layer of flavor, enhancing the overall aroma. Russet potatoes: Ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture. Milk and butter: Essential for creating creamy, luscious mashed potatoes. Garlic: Adds a savory kick to the potatoes, complementing the beef.
Pair this dish with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the citrus notes in the ribs. A glass of the same white wine used in cooking would also be a delightful accompaniment.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the slow braise. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for enhancing the beef's natural flavors.
In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs, browning them on all sides. This step is all about building flavor, so don’t rush it. Once browned, remove the ribs and set them aside.
In the same pot, toss in the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your braising liquid.
Pour in the white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pot. These bits are flavor gold! Then add the beef stock, lemon juice, lemon zest, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Return the ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid. Cover the pot and transfer it to your preheated oven. Let them braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
While the ribs are braising, prepare the garlic mashed potatoes. Boil the russet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they’re tender. Drain them and return to the pot. Add the milk, butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.
To serve, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on a plate and top with the braised short ribs. Drizzle with some of the flavorful braising liquid for an extra touch.