Dutch oven Ideal for searing and braising; if you don't have one, a heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot will work.
Tongs For easy flipping of the ribs during searing.
Chef’s Knife For prepping the veggies.
Cutting board Preferably a large, sturdy one.
Measuring cups and spoons Precision matters, especially with liquids and seasoning.
Crockpot If you want to turn this into a crockpot beef short ribs or short rib stew slow cooker version.
Oven For baking the ribs if you prefer a baked beef short ribs style.
Ingredients
4poundsbone-in beef short ribsyou can substitute with boneless beef short ribs if preferred
2tablespoonsvegetable oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1large oniondiced
3clovesgarlicminced
2carrotspeeled and chopped
2stalks celerychopped
2tablespoonstomato paste
2cupsGuinness Stoutor any stout beer
2cupsbeef broth
2sprigs fresh rosemary
4sprigs fresh thyme
2bay leaves
1tablespoonWorcestershire sauce
1tablespoonbrown sugaroptional, to balance the stout's bitterness
Instructions
Prep the Short Ribs
Pat your beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step because moisture prevents a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Short Ribs
Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a rich brown crust. Don't rush this step; it's where the deep flavor starts.
Saute the Aromatics
Remove the ribs and set aside. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Saute until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste, stirring until fragrant.
Deglaze with Guinness
Pour in the Guinness Stout, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those flavorful brown bits. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Build the Braise
Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and brown sugar. Stir to combine. Return the short ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
Braise
Cover the Dutch oven and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Serve
Remove the herbs and bay leaves. Serve the short ribs over creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered egg noodles, spooning plenty of the braising sauce on top.