If you're looking for a cozy, comforting dish that fills your home with the warm, inviting aromas of fall, look no further than Spiced Apple Cider Braised Beef Short Ribs. This recipe combines the rich, hearty flavors of beef with the sweet and spicy notes of apple cider, perfect for a chilly evening.
Beef short ribs are the star of this dish, offering rich, hearty flavor and a satisfying texture when cooked properly. Apple cider provides a natural sweetness that beautifully complements the beef. Beef broth adds depth and richness to the braising liquid. Onion and garlic are classic aromatics that form the base of the flavor profile. Olive oil is used for searing, helping to develop a deep, savory crust on the ribs. Cinnamon and smoked paprika add warmth and a subtle spice, while black pepper and salt enhance all the flavors. Bay leaves and whole cloves infuse the braise with aromatic depth, and a touch of apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness. Finally, brown sugar adds a hint of caramelized sweetness to round everything out.
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a hearty polenta, which soak up the rich braising liquid. A side of roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the flavors perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures that the oven is ready for slow braising, which is key to achieving that tender texture. While the oven is heating, season the beef short ribs generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. This step infuses the meat with flavor right from the start.
Heat some olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs, searing them for about 3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, brown crust. This step is crucial for enhancing flavor. After searing, remove the ribs and set them aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the onions and garlic to the same pot. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent, which should take a few minutes. Stir in the cinnamon, smoked paprika, and brown sugar, allowing them to cook for another minute. This will awaken their flavors and create a fragrant base.
Next, pour in the apple cider, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze it, releasing all those flavorful bits left from searing. Add the bay leaves and whole cloves for depth and complexity.
Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise the ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Remove the bay leaves and cloves before serving to avoid any unwelcome bites.
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