Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs

Introduction

Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs are a fall-inspired, comforting, and indulgent dish. Tender, succulent short ribs are slowly braised in apple cider, onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs until they fall off the bone. The apple cider adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the rich, meaty ribs beautifully. Perfect for a cozy dinner, special occasions, or holiday meals, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly aromatic.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms tough, flavorful beef short ribs into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The slow braising process allows the meat to absorb the sweet and savory notes from the apple cider, onions, garlic, and herbs. Every bite is tender, juicy, and bursting with layered flavors. The combination of savory beef and the gentle sweetness of apple cider creates a balanced, gourmet-level dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it delivers restaurant-quality short ribs with minimal effort. The apple cider adds a unique twist that elevates traditional braised short ribs, making them slightly sweet, deeply savory, and perfectly tender. It’s ideal for entertaining or a special family dinner, and it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta. Each bite is comforting, luxurious, and unforgettable.

Preparation Time & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3–3.5 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes – 3 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: Approximately 650–700 per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American / Contemporary Comfort Food
• Course: Main Course / Braised Meat

Ingredients

• 4–5 lbs (1.8–2.3 kg) beef short ribs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear in olive oil until browned on all sides; remove and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until fragrant.
4. Add apple cider, beef broth, tomato paste, and herbs; bring to a simmer.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and braise in the oven 3–3.5 hours until tender.
6. Remove ribs and reduce sauce slightly if desired. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season & Sear Short Ribs: Pat short ribs dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides until deeply browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove ribs and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add sliced onions to the same pot and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze & Add Liquid: Stir in tomato paste, then pour in apple cider and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Braise Short Ribs: Return seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and transfer to the oven. Braise for 3–3.5 hours, or until ribs are fork-tender.
6. Finish Sauce: Remove short ribs from the pot. If desired, place the pot over medium heat on the stove and reduce the braising liquid to a thicker sauce consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Plate short ribs, spoon sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

How to Serve

Serve hot with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, buttered noodles, or polenta. The rich, slightly sweet sauce pairs perfectly with savory sides. Optional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of thyme adds color and a fresh aroma.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Browning the short ribs well before braising adds deep flavor.
• Keep the braising liquid slightly covering the ribs for even cooking.
• Use fresh herbs for the most aromatic flavor; dried herbs can be used but reduce quantity.
• For extra depth, braise low and slow—longer cooking yields even more tender meat.

Variations

• Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for warm, autumnal notes.
• Cider & Apple Combo: Add sliced apples to the braising liquid for extra sweetness.
• Red Wine Variation: Replace half of the apple cider with red wine for richer flavor.
• Vegetable Braise: Add carrots, parsnips, or celery to the pot for a complete one-pot meal.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store cooked short ribs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Tongs for searing
• Oven

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use bone-in or boneless short ribs?
A: Bone-in ribs are preferred for flavor and presentation, but boneless works as well.

Q2: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of the oven?
A: Yes, braise on low heat for 3–3.5 hours on the stovetop, ensuring the liquid doesn’t evaporate completely.

Q3: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Yes, the ribs taste even better the next day as flavors develop.

Q4: Can I use other types of cider?
A: Hard or sweet apple cider works; adjust sweetness to taste if using hard cider.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Braised Short Ribs are a fall-inspired, indulgent, and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The tender, juicy short ribs absorb the sweet and savory flavors of apple cider, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, creating a rich and aromatic meal. Easy to prepare yet impressive on the table, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Every bite is flavorful, tender, and deeply satisfying, making it a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, gourmet comfort food.