You’re in the right place if you want to elevate your next dinner with a mouth you’re ng, flavorful dish. Imagine tender, juicy beef short ribs, slow-cooked to perfection, seasoned with the deep, rich flavours of oxtail seasoning. Sounds delicious, right? In this guide, we’ll show you how to cook beef short ribs using oxtail seasoning for a truly unique and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook eager to try something new, this easy braised recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. You may wonder: How do you make beef short ribs tender and flavorful? What’s The secret to seasoning them, just right? Don’t worry—we’vegot you covered. This recipe takes you step-by-step through the process, offering tips and tricks to ensure you achieve perfectly braised short ribs every time.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a new go-to recipe and the knowledge to customize it with your favourite flavours. Ready to cook up a storm? LLet’sdive in!
Why Beef Short Ribs and Oxtail Seasoning Make the Perfect Pairing
When cooking beef short ribs, you want a recipe that brings out the rich, savoury depth of the meat while ensuring it stays tender and juicy. But what if you could take your short ribs to the next level? That’s where oxtail seasoning comes in. This unique blend of herbs and spices doesn’t just complement the beef—it transforms it.
Here: beef short ribs and oxtail seasoning make the perfect pairing:
Boosts Flavor Complexity
The key to a great braise is layers of flavour. While beef short ribs already pack a bold, beefy punch, adding oxtail seasoning introduces a subtle but significant depth. Typically made with ingredients like garlic, ginger, thyme, and allspice, oxtail seasoning infuses your short ribs with a savoury umami richness that takes each bite to new heights. Have you ever tried seasoning your short ribs with something other than salt and pepper? The combination of spices in oxtail seasoning can add a whole new dimension.
Tenderizes the Meat
Oxtail seasoning isn’t just about flavour. The mix of ingredients, including aromatics like onions and herbs, helps to tenderize the beef as it cooks, ensuring the short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender. When braised low and slow, the seasoning seeps into the meat, breaking down the fibres and creating an incredibly tender texture. If you’ve struggled to tender your short ribs, this seasoning could be the secret to perfecting your results.
A Twist on Tradition
Oxtail seasoning has traditionally been used for, well, oxtail stew. But why not break the rules? Using it on beef short ribs gives you the best of both worlds—rich, fall-apart-tender meat and a complex, flavorful seasoning blend that’s farthat’sordinary. This is where creativity meets comfort food, and the results are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s botthat’sliar and exciting.
Pairing with the Right Cooking Method
Braising is the perfect cooking method for beef short ribs because it allows the meat to absorb all the rich flavours from the seasoning. The slow, low heat ensures the meat breaks down gently while remaining juicy and tender. With oxtail seasoning as the star, the braising liquid becomes an aromatic, flavorful sauce that coats the short ribs beautifully. Have you ever noticed how the best braises are the ones that have had time to soak in all the flavours? This is one of those recipes.
By now, you might be asking: Why haven’t you tried this pairing sooner? Well, now you know the secret and are about to take your beef short ribs to an entirely new level. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive. Let’s take the next step—gather all the ingredients needed to make this dish your own.
Ingredients You’ll NeeYou’llthe Recipe
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. One of the keys to a great dish is using quality ingredients that enhance each other’s flother’sFor this easy braised beef short ribs recipe, the star is the beef short ribs, but the magic happens when you bring in oxtail seasoning to elevate the dish.
Below is a list of the essential ingredients and some optional additions to customize the flavours. Let’s make you’re prepared!
Essential Ingredients for Beef Short Ribs Braised with Oxtail Seasoning
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef short ribs | 3-4 pounds | Bone-in ribs provide more flavor, but boneless will work too. |
| Oxtail seasoning | 2-3 tablespoons | This is the magic ingredient—don’t skimp! |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For searing the short ribs to lock in flavor. |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds sweetness and depth to the dish. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Essential for that aromatic richness. |
| Carrots | 2, peeled and chopped | Adds natural sweetness to the braising liquid. |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped | Complements the vegetables and adds balance. |
| Beef broth | 4 cups | Provides a rich base for braising. |
| Red wine (optional) | 1 cup | For added depth and a slight acidity. |
| Fresh thyme | 2-3 sprigs | Adds earthy undertones to the dish. |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves | Essential for flavor complexity. |
Optional Ingredients to Customize the Flavor
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Worcestershire sauce | A splash adds a touch of savory tang. |
| Tomato paste | Adds richness and a slight sweetness. |
| Mushrooms | Sautéed and added in will deepen the flavor profile. |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | To add a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish. |
As you can See, the list isn’t overwhelming, but these ingredients are flavorful. The combination of beef short ribs and oxtail seasoning is a match made in culinary heaven, while the vegetables and broth create a delicious base for braising.
Pro Tip: Why Use Oxtail Seasoning?
You might be wondering why oxtail seasoning is used. Traditional oxtail stew often uses a blend of spices like thyme, allspice, and garlic. By using oxtail seasoning for your beef short ribs, you enhance the dish with these aromatic flavours, giving it that deep, comforting taste we all love. The seasoning is designed to bring out the natural richness of the beef while adding subtle complexity that’s hard to achieve with standard seasonings.
Now that we have everything we need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking. Trust me, once you taste the final product, you’ll see why this simple combination of beef and seasoning works so beautifully.
Ready? Let’s move on to the next step: preparing the beef short ribs for braising!
Step-by-Step Guide to Braising Beef Short Ribs
With your ingredients prepped, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Braising beef short ribs may sound like a long process, but trust me, it’s straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Patience is essential here—take it slow and let the flavors develop over time. Ready to transform those short ribs into a tender, flavorful masterpiece? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Preparing the Beef Short Ribs
Before throwing those short beef ribs into the pot, give them some prep work to ensure maximum flavour.
- Trim and Season the Ribs: Start trimming any excess fat from the ribs. You don’t want too much fat, but leave a little—this will help keep the meat moist during braising. Once that’s done, season the ribs generously with salt and pepper, followed by the oxtail seasoning—this will give your short ribs an extra punch of flavour.
- Let it Rest: After seasoning, let the beef rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the seasoning to absorb into the meat.
Searing the Ribs to Lock in Flavor
This step might seem simple, but don’t skip it! Searing short ribs is crucial for creating a deep, caramelized flavour to enhance the final dish.
- Heat the Pan: Heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, heavy-bottomed pot (like a Dutch oven).
- Sear the Ribs: Add the beef short ribs to the pot in batches, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown and have developed a delicious crust. This step locks in those juices and creates a rich, savoury base for your braise.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Once the ribs are seared, it’s time to build even more flavour. Add your chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the same pot. These vegetables will provide sweetness and a savoury foundation for the braising liquid.
- Cook the Veggies: Sauté the aromatics for 5-7 minutes until they soften and start to release their fragrance. This step adds a depth of flavour that will permeate the entire dish.
Adding the Braising Liquid
Now, let’s get the magic happening. All the flavours come together in the braising liquid, turning those short ribs into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish.
- Pour in the Beef Broth and Wine: Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the pot. These ingredients provide the base for the braise. The wine adds acidity and depth, while the broth ensures the meat stays juicy.
- Add the Herbs and Seasoning: Toss in the fresh thyme, bay leaves, and more oxtail seasoning. Stir everything together, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed in the liquid.
Braising the Short Ribs
Now comes the slow-cooking magic. This is where the low and slow technique works wonders, breaking down the meat into something truly special.
- Please bring it to a Simmer: Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing the flavours to meld together. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
- Let it Braise: Cook the short ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours. During this time, the ribs will absorb all the rich, aromatic flavours of the braising liquid and become incredibly tender. The ribs are ready when they are easily pulled apart with a fork.
Final Touches
Once the short ribs are cooked to perfection, it’s time to take the pot off the heat and finish things off.
- Rest the Ribs: Let the short ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to be evenly distributed within the meat.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the short ribs with the braising liquid spooned over the top and your favourite side dishes (more on that later). Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the tender, flavorful magic you’ve created!
Pro Tip: How to Avoid Overcooking
Getting caught up in the slow-cooking process is easy, but be mindful of the time. Beef short ribs are a forgiving cut of meat, but if left in the braise for too long, they can become mushy. Stick to the recommended cooking time, and you’ll always have perfect short ribs.
By now, your kitchen should be smelling amazing, and you’re just a few steps away from tasting a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Don’t forget to check on your braising liquid—if it’s reducing too much, feel free to add more broth.
Ready to plate your masterpiece? In the next section, let’s move on to serving suggestions and pairing tips!
Tips for Perfectly Braised Beef Short Ribs
Now that your beef short ribs are braising away, it’s time to talk about how to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Braising may seem like a simple process, but you can use a few tricks to elevate your dish and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying braising for the first time, these tips will help you easily achieve melt-in-your-mouth short ribs.
Don’t Skip the Searing Step
We’ve already mentioned this, but it’s worth repeating: searing your beef short ribs is a game-changer. By creating a caramelized crust on the outside of the ribs, you’re locking in the juices and creating a rich, flavorful base for your braising liquid. If you skip this step, your short ribs will miss out on that deep, savoury flavour that takes the dish from good to amazing.
Pro Tip: If your pot isn’t big enough to sear all the ribs at once, don’t crowd them. Work in batches to ensure each rib gets an even sear.
Low and Slow is the Key
Braising works its magic by cooking the meat slowly in a flavorful liquid. That means low heat and plenty of time for the beef to break down and become tender. Aim for a cooking time of 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size of your short ribs.
- Too Hot, Too Fast: If the heat is too high, the ribs will cook too quickly and might dry out, leading to tough, chewy meat.
- Too Low, Too Slow: On the other hand, if the heat is too low or the pot is not simmering enough, the braising process could take longer, and the meat might not achieve that perfect texture.
The goal is a gentle simmer, so make sure the liquid is bubbling lightly throughout the cooking process.
Keep an Eye on the Liquid Level
While braising, it’s important to ensure enough liquid to cover at least half of the ribs. As the dish cooks, the liquid will reduce, concentrating its flavours. If the liquid level gets too low, add more beef broth to submerge the ribs.
Pro Tip: Check the liquid about halfway through cooking. If it’s reducing too much, add more broth or wine to maintain the moisture.
Adjust the Seasoning as You Go
Sometimes, even with the best ingredients, a dish may need some tweaking. After the ribs have braised, taste the braising liquid and adjust the seasoning. Does it need a touch more salt? Perhaps a little more oxtail seasoning to deepen the flavour?
- Taste, Don’t Guess: Don’t rely solely on the recipe’s measurements. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so always give the liquid a taste test and adjust as needed.
Resting is Crucial
Once your short ribs are done cooking, please don’t be too hasty to serve them! Let them rest for at least 10 minutes after removing them from the pot. This lets the juices spread evenly within the meat, ensuring it stays moist and tender.
If you skip this step, you might find the meat is dry when you cut into it—definitely not the texture you aim for!
Make the Braise Ahead of Time
One of the best things about this recipe is that it gets even better the next day. If you want to save time or prepare the dish in advance, braise the short ribs the day before. Let the ribs cool down, then store them in the fridge overnight. The next day, just reheat the ribs gently, and they’ll be just as delicious—if not more so!
Pro Tip: The flavours have more time to meld together overnight, making this dish perfect for preparing for a busy weeknight or dinner party.
Bonus Tip: Experiment with Flavor Add-Ins
Once you’ve mastered this basic braised beef short ribs recipe, try experimenting with different herbs and spices to create your signature version. Some delicious add-ins include:
- Smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
- Add a splash of soy sauce to enhance the umami flavor.
- Cinnamon stick for a warm, aromatic flavour
- Fresh rosemary to complement the thyme
The beauty of braising is that it’s incredibly versatile. Once you’ve perfected the basics, you can tailor it to suit your preferences and create your unique twist.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a delicious, easy-to-make recipe for braised beef short ribs seasoned with oxtail seasoning. By now, you’ve learned how to transform a humble cut of meat into a tender, flavorful masterpiece that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. But before you dive into your first bite, let’s take a moment to reflect on what makes this dish so special.
First, the combination of beef short ribs and oxtail seasoning is magical. The seasoning enhances the natural richness of the meat, creating a depth of flavour that will have you savouring every bite. If you’ve never tried this seasoning before, I hope this recipe has convinced you to give it a go—it truly brings something unique.
Did you enjoy the process of braising? With a little patience, the slow cooking method works wonders, allowing the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a cosy family dinner or a special occasion, the result is always impressive. Plus, it’s a recipe that improves with time, so feel free to make it ahead and let the flavours develop even further.
As you sit down to enjoy your meal, consider how customizable this recipe can be. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, experiment with different sides, and even add your twist to the braising liquid. The possibilities are endless!
Armed with the knowledge and tips shared in this post, you’re ready to master the art of cooking beef short ribs with oxtail seasoning. I hope this recipe becomes a regular in your kitchen, a go-to comfort food that never disappoints. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Happy cooking!