Cast Iron Braised Short Ribs Recipe

short ribs being salted

When the chill sets in and the rivers slow, there's nothing like a hearty meal to warm the soul. This braised short ribs and cabbage recipe is a nod to rustic comfort, perfect after a day of fly fishing or exploring the great outdoors. Slow-cooked in a Dutch oven, the tender short ribs meld with savory cabbage, creating a dish that's both satisfying and simple.

How To Make Cast Iron Braised Beef Short Ribs

Ingredients

Serves 4

  • 3 pounds bone-in short ribs

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

  • 2 cups thinly sliced onion

  • 1 cup thinly sliced leeks, washed and dried

  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ¾ cup dry white wine

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 pound cabbage, cut into large dice (about half a medium head)

  • Coarse kosher salt, to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Mashed potatoes or rice, for serving (optional)

Horseradish Gremolata:

  • ⅓ cup finely chopped parsley

  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic

  • ¼ cup freshly grated horseradish

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Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 300°F.

  2. Sear Short Ribs: Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a 3.5-quart Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Add half the short ribs and sear until deeply browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Repeat with the remaining ribs. Transfer to a plate.

  3. Sauté Aromatics: Discard all but 1 tablespoon of fat from the pot. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, leeks, and garlic; cook until softened, about 5-8 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and smoked paprika; cook for 2 minutes. Pour in white wine; cook for another 2 minutes.

  4. Add Broth and Cabbage: Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Gradually add cabbage, allowing each addition to wilt before adding more. Return the seared short ribs to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Braise: Cover the Dutch oven and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake until the short ribs are tender and nearly falling off the bone, about 2½ to 3 hours. Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.

  6. Prepare Gremolata: In a small bowl, mix together chopped parsley, minced garlic, and freshly grated horseradish.

  7. Serve: Spoon the stew into bowls over mashed potatoes or rice, if desired. Top with a spoonful of horseradish gremolata.

FAQs

Can I use boneless short ribs?
Yes, but bone-in ribs add more flavor and richness to the dish.

What can I substitute for dry white wine?
You can use beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen when made a day in advance.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Substitute short ribs with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

What type of Dutch oven is best?
A 3.5-quart Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe, providing even heat distribution for braising.


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